Trump administration's new dietary guidelines favor more protein, fewer processed foods

The Trump Administration on Jan. 7 unveiled new U.S. dietary guidelines that encourage Americans to eat more protein and fewer highly processed foods, Time reported. The guidance also softens language on alcohol and highlights red meat, dairy and butter, prompting concern from some doctors and nutritionists.

The updated guidance includes a new, inverted food pyramid that prioritizes protein, dairy, healthy fats, vegetables and fruits, and emphasizes eating “real” food, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said at a White House press briefing. It advises people to significantly limit highly processed foods, which the guidelines describe as foods “laden with refined carbohydrates, added sugars, excess sodium, unhealthy fats, and chemical additives.” The guidelines encourage greater protein intake — including from red meat, poultry and eggs — and recommend full-fat dairy and cooking with butter and beef tallow, though they maintain the longstanding recommendation to limit saturated fats to 10% of daily calories.

The guidance drew criticism: Marion Nestle called the advice contradictory, and the American Heart Association urged more research and recommended prioritizing plant-based proteins, seafood and lean meats while limiting high-fat animal products. The American Medical Association praised the spotlight on sugar and highly processed foods.

Key Topics

Health, Dietary Guidelines, Highly Processed Foods, Saturated Fats, American Heart Association, Marion Nestle