Looking around on the USDA web-site today I realized something. It is almost the end of 2008. Well I already knew that, but I had forgotten how close we are to 2010.
My point? The USDA and Health and Human Services release dietary guidelines every 5 years. That means the release of a revised set is right around the corner.
Like most people, I’ve had issues with our national guidelines in the past. That being said, I am grateful to live in (or I guess be from) a country where this information exists. It is at least a starting point and provides thought provoking information to reflect on.
I also think we’ve come a long way. For example, the importance of physical activity finally found a place in the 2005 guidelines. I’m actually really hopeful for changes to come.
I had a pretty cool job working in Cooperative Extension before our move abroad. I got to work on a project with other nutritionists and exercise professionals to develop a curriculum tool based on the 2005 guidelines.
This meant that I had access to notes and research that went into the development of those guidelines – two massive binders full. It was really eye-opening to see how much work and science goes into their creation.
While I was always critical of the old pyramid with all the carbs on the bottom, seeing the basis for the development of the 2005 guidelines I became more appreciative of their presence. It can be difficult to translate science into something usable and understandable to the general public. Change can be confusing and nutrition tends to be a complex subject with all those macro and micro nutrients to worry about.
Personally, I’m all ears about what is to come in the new guidelines. Even if I don’t agree with it all, I know it will give me new ideas to explore.
The committee will be holding public meetings in Washington DC (the first one was last week) for the next several months. The new/revised guidelines will be released in fall 2010.
If you have something to say regarding the 2010 revision, you can submit and view public comments by visiting the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion.
So how do you feel about government-based nutrition information? Do you use it to guide your choices or do you have other resources you rely on?
Photo by Heather Kitchen courtesy of Free Range Stock
I think it is helpful yet incomplete. The turn around time is a bit on the sow side. Again anything that can be used to educate one towards a healthier understanding is good!
It’s definitely time for a change with those guidelines – I’m looking forward to learning more!
i’m sorry, is this the same government that created the corn surplus problem and continues to subsidize cheap, nutritionless food? No thank you!
I definitely think it’s getting better. But it’s far from perfect!
Thanks for the comments. It is interesting to read everyone’s opinions.