01/09/2026
How do the new 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans impact your bones? 🦴
The dietary guidelines have long encouraged Americans to limit highly processed foods, sweetened foods, and promoted plant foods such as vegetables and beans. But they have not been well followed by the general population. The dietary guidelines set the standard for nutrition programs, including meals in schools, the military, and congregate meals for seniors.
In this set of guidelines, there is a big push for protein. For older women, that is appropriate, as many do not get optimal protein intake. However, be careful where you get your protein from. As always, protein can come from lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, milk, and yogurt.
Dairy items do not have to be full-fat; they can be the item of your choice. Your overall focus is, does your food choice have the protein and nutrients your bones need, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin D?
Some plant milks also provide these nutrients, such as pea, soy, and protein almondmilk. In the plant line are other foods that furnish protein such as beans, lentils, peas, nuts, and seeds.
Vegetables and fruits have always been a high priority for their fiber, vitamins A & C, potassium, and magnesium. Eat a variety of vegetables and be sure to include dark, leafy greens.
Whole grains are recommended over refined since they provide fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants, and protein.
Healthy fats come from olive oil, canola oil, and avocados. These fats are also provided in some fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Season your food with herbs and spices, and if using salt, consider how well your blood pressure is managed.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans reset U.S. nutrition policy by restoring science, common sense, and real food as the foundation of national health.
