New U.S. Dietary Guidelines Focus on Salt Reduction

As a Registered Dietitian, I’m thrilled these new 2010 Dietary Guidelines encourage everyone to take responsibility and learn to apply the concept of Calorie Balance. (It’s defined in these new Dietary Guidelines as the balance between calories consumed through eating and drinking and those expended through physical activity and metabolic processes.)

Because when someone actually applies calorie balance to their lifestyle, they realize that ALL foods and beverages – even those with solid fats and added sugars – can continue to be eaten and enjoyed moderately. Calorie balance through smaller portions and increased activity is the key to that moderate approach, not complete avoidance or elimination.

The new guidelines are based on all the latest evidence-based science to promote optimal health and wellness. So naturally as a dietitian I hope every American will take the time and effort to focus on eating the right amounts of the right foods (called nutrient-dense in the new Guidelines) for optimal health.

But I also want everyone to learn how to responsibly enjoy and include favorite sugary beverages, snack foods, treats and desserts, too.

Adopting this all-inclusive, balanced approach is not only more practical and realistic – it’s sustainable for a lifetime.

Thank you.

Kim Galeaz, RD, CD - Registered Dietitian, Writer and Culinary-Nutrition Consultant to the food, beverage and agriculture industry.

Kim Galeaz, RD CD of IN 10:34AM February 01, 2011