Government Guidelines On Healthy Eating & Nutrition

Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet can help you stay healthy and reduce your risk for some chronic diseases. Various organizations of the U.S. government have issued guidelines to help you eat healthier. Eating healthy foods from all food groups, staying within your calorie limits and limiting unhealthy foods are some guidelines that can help you improve your eating habits.

History

Every five years beginning in 1980, the United States Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture, or USDA, have published the "Dietary Guidelines for Americans." These guidelines promote good dietary habits and provide education on how healthy eating can reduce your risk for chronic diseases. These guidelines form the basis for U.S. nutrition education programs.

Calorie Intake

How much you eat is as important as what you eat when it comes to nutrition, according to MedlinePlus, the medical encyclopedia from the National Institutes of Health. Exceeding your calorie limits, even if you eat healthy foods, can lead to weight gain and other unhealthy conditions. Eating too few calories can lead to nutrient deficiencies and potential problems with growth and development. The USDA "MyPyramid" program can provide you with an estimate of your daily calorie needs based on your age, gender, height, weight and physical activity habits.

Food Groups

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourage filling your calorie needs from different food groups, including fruits and vegetables, grains, milk, meat or beans, and oils. According to the guidelines, you should consume at least 4.5 cups of combined fruits and vegetables each day and at least half of the grains you eat should come from whole-grain foods, such as brown rice, oatmeal and whole wheat bread. The guidelines also recommend drinking 3 cups of low-fat milk each day as well as eating 5 to 6 oz. of meat and beans. The exact amount of foods from each food group you need will depend on how many calories you need each day.

Significance

Two-thirds of adults and almost one-third of children are obese, according to the Office of the Surgeon General of the United States. The Surgeon General's Vision for a Healthy and Fit Nation outlines key actions Americans should take to help achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. These guidelines include reducing consumption of sodas and juices with added sugars; eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins; drinking more water; choosing low- or non-fat dairy products; limiting daily television time to two hours; and engaging in more physical activity.

Benefits

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excess weight has been shown to increase your risk for heart disease, some types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis and high blood pressure. Following healthy eating guidelines can help you stay at a healthy weight or lose weight if necessary. Following these guidelines can also allow you to get enough energy, vitamins, minerals and fiber as well as important nutrients necessary for proper growth, development and body functions.