Breaking Down the New Dietary Guidelines

With constant nutrition headlines and changing food trends, it can be difficult to know which guidance to follow. Reviewing the primary resources that shape federal nutrition recommendations can help provide clarity. Two key resources are The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and The Scientific Report of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC). While they serve different roles, both aim to support healthier eating patterns across the population. 

Understanding where these guidelines align and differ helps translate national recommendations into practical, everyday nutrition decisions.

SHARED FOCUS AREAS 

Prioritizing Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods 

Both the DGA and DGAC emphasize choosing foods that provide strong nutritional value. These include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Both resources recommend limiting highly processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and foods high in added sugars to support overall diet quality.

Improving Diet Quality to Support Long-Term Health  

Both documents highlight the role of balanced, nutrient-rich dietary patterns in supporting overall health and reducing the risk of nutrition-related chronic conditions. The focus remains on consistent eating patterns rather than individual nutrients. 

KEY DIFFERENCES IN GUIDANCE 

Protein  

• DGAC: Recommends consuming a variety of protein sources without setting elevated intake targets.
• DGA: Encourages higher overall protein intake and highlights both animal-based and plant-based protein options. 

Saturated Fat  

• DGAC: Recommends limiting saturated fat intake to less than 10 percent of total daily calories and encourages low-fat dairy products and lean meats.
• DGA: Maintains the same recommended limit while allowing greater flexibility in foods that naturally contain saturated fat, including dairy and meats.

WHAT THIS MEANS AT ECUMEN 

At Ecumen, our nutrition approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, resident choice, and balance. At this time, no major menu changes are being made, as current menus already align with established nutrition guidelines and support health, enjoyment, and individual preferences. 

Ecumen communities will continue to offer daily specials, snacks between meals, and an Always Available menu to provide flexibility and choice. Menus include a variety of appropriately portioned protein options, with protein-rich snacks available outside of meals. 

Resident feedback remains central to the menu planning process through monthly food committees, tasting tables, and ongoing consideration of cultural traditions and personal favorites. 

A BALANCED APPROACH TO NUTRITION 

Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all. Ecumen remains committed to supporting health, dignity, choice, and enjoyment at every meal, while continuing to align with evidence-based nutrition guidance and the evolving needs of the residents we serve.