jEanne Angleberger, 

Shaklee Associate for a Healthier Life

Did you know the Dietary Guidelines for Americans is updated every five years? These guidelines are designed to help us stay healthier throughout our lifespan. And, it is a reminder that it’s never too late to eat healthfully!

The recommendations are from the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. It provides information to help promote good health and prevent chronic disease.

There is now new guidance for infancy and early childhood. It is exciting to have some helpful guidelines during pregnancy, lactation, and the first 24 months of a newborn’s life.

The “Changing Needs of Older Adults” is another topic available for ages 60 and up. It highlights some of the unique nutritional needs we experience after age 60.

A new “85/15 rule” and “nutrient density” is aimed to get 85 percent of your calories from nutrient-dense foods and beverages and only 15 percent from unhealthy foods. These nutrient-dense foods are fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, seafood, lean protein, eggs, nuts, and seeds. Nutrient-dense foods are rich in vitamins and minerals, with minimal added sugars, fats, and oils. Make the choice to eat grilled chicken instead of chicken nuggets or choose to eat oatmeal instead of an oatmeal cookie.

Nutrition is not a cookbook science. It is, and can be, designed for an individual’s health needs. You can digest these new guidelines at www.dietaryguidelines.gov.

It is one of the best references. Be sure to take a look and learn how you can stay healthier as you age.