USDA, HHS Announce New Guidelines For Healthier Living

By Rachel Whitt 

In an effort to counter the U.S. obesity epidemic, the latest version of Dietary Guidelines for Americans puts a stronger focus on balancing calorie intake and promoting physical activity.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the new guidelines Monday during a joint appearance at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. 

“It’s not as if we are trying to eliminate all foods in al categories,” Vilsack said. “It’s really about making sure you have a balanced approach to your eating, focusing on calories in and calories out.” 

Both secretaries commended Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move Campaign and it’s efforts to incorporate healthy eating options in schools to reduce childhood obesity. Currently more than one-third of American children are overweight or obese. 

“Helping Americans incorporate these guidelines into their everyday lives is important to improving the overall health of the American people.” Sebelius said. “The new Dietary Guidelines provide concrete action steps to help live healthier, more physically active and longer lives.”

The guidelines highlight portion control, eating more fruits and vegetables, reducing fat and sodium intake, and drinking more water as important steps to improve Americans’ health.