CNRC Researcher Named To Review Nutrition Guidelines

Dr. Theresa Nicklas, professor of pediatrics and researcher at the Children's Nutrition Research Center, has been named to the federal Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, a panel that will review the nutrition guidelines for Americans.

The appointment was announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson and Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman. Nicklas is one of 13 experts named to the panel, which issues a review report every five years.

The panelists will meet this fall to review and update the most recent scientific literature in preparation for the release of the 2005 version of Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The guidelines contain nutritional and dietary information and guidance for the general public.

The information is based on the latest scientific and medical knowledge available, and currently comprises 10 guidelines that individuals should aim for to improve overall health:

Aim for Fitness:

• Aim for a healthy weight.
  
• Be physically active each day.
  

Build a Healthy Base:

• Let the Pyramid guide your food choices.
  
• Choose a variety of grains daily, especially whole grains. 
  
• Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables daily.
  
• Keep food safe to eat.

Choose Sensibly:

• Choose a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and moderate in total fat.
  
• Choose beverages and foods to moderate your intake of sugars.
• Choose and prepare foods with less salt.
  
• If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation.

First published in 1980, the Dietary Guidelines are updated every five years based on the recommendations of an 11-member Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee who evaluate advances in medical and scientific research.  The Dietary Guidelines provide the basis for the Food Guide Pyramid and federal nutrition policy and programs. Dr. Dennis Bier, CNRC director, was a member of the 1995 committee.

To learn more about the new dietary guidelines, see www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/.