For years, the federal government advised Americans to limit red meat and foods high in saturated fats.
However, new federal dietary guidelines elevate protein, dairy and healthy fats to the top of a redesigned food pyramid — a shift that has drawn mixed reactions from nutrition experts.
The new food pyramid continues to emphasize fruits and vegetables and avoiding added sugar, but it also encourages Americans to cook with butter or beef tallow and increase their protein intake. The recommendations are now for adults to consume 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, up from the previous guideline of 0.8 grams. Protein is recommended from both animal sources, such as red meat, and plant-based options.
Experts said the new guidelines’ emphasis on avoiding processed foods and added sugar are sound. But some worry that encouraging more fats will conflict with existing guidelines on limiting fat to 10% of one’s daily calories — and that some Americans may not need additional protein.
Read more at Northeastern Global News
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