Archive · 10 Jan 2026
US Updates Dietary Guidelines: More Protein, Less Sugar and Salt
The US has updated its food guidelines.
They now say we should eat more protein, like meat, eggs, and beans, and less sugar, salt, and processed foods.
They also recommend full-fat dairy without added sugar and suggest cooking real, home-made food instead of eating packaged meals.
For kids, they say no added sugar at all.
They also talk about limiting alcohol but don't set a specific limit.
The guidelines aim to help people eat healthier and feel better.
New US dietary guidelines emphasize more protein intake, aiming for 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight daily.
The guidelines recommend avoiding added sugar, especially for children, and limiting highly processed foods.
Full-fat dairy is now prioritized, with a recommendation to limit saturated fat to 10% of total calories.
Red meat is included as a protein source but should be lean, unprocessed, and consumed in moderation.
Alcohol consumption should be limited, but no specific measure is set.
- Who
- The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- What
- Updated dietary guidelines emphasizing protein, avoiding sugar, salt, and processed foods
- When
- The guidelines were unveiled on Wednesday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To promote healthier eating habits and reduce the risk of chronic diseases
- Protein Recommendation
- 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight daily
- Added Sugar for Kids
- None recommended for ages 0-5, minimal for ages 5-10
- Red Meat Consumption
- Up to 350 grams per week, preferably lean and unprocessed
- Dairy Recommendation
- Full-fat dairy with no added sugar, limit saturated fat to 10% of total calories
- Alcohol Consumption
- Limit total consumption, no specific measure set
