USDA Changes in the Food Pyramid

On Jan. 31, 2011, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans. With a push to end the obesity epidemic, the USDA presented two overarching themes: sustain a healthy weight and consume nutrient-dense foods.

Update No. 1: Emphasis on Reducing Calorie Consumption

• The USDA emphasized the need to reduce caloric intake for weight loss and/or management. Several tips were provided to help Americans achieve this goal, including: 1. Enjoy your food, but eat less; 2. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables; and 3. Drink water instead of sugary beverages.

Update No. 2: Emphasis on Physical Activity

• The addition of the person climbing steps was added in 2005 to encourage regular physical activity. Additional recommendations were added urging Americans to reduce sedentary behaviors and to meet minimum physical activity guidelines. The recommendations for physical activity were paired with calorie need recommendations, increasing the focus on weight management.

Update No. 3: Emphasis on Plant-Based Foods

• The new guidelines emphasized the importance of eating more foods from plants, like vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains and nuts. Key recommendations included a "Foods and Nutrients to Increase" section to help Americans improve healthy eating patterns while staying within calorie recommendations.

Update No. 4: Emphasis on Reducing Added Sugars and Fats

• The USDA increased emphasis on reducing added sugars and fats, with special mention of limiting consumption of refined grains. Trans fats and saturated fats were recommended to be replaced by unsaturated fats. In addition, reductions in sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day for those 50 years and younger, and 1,500 mg per day for those 51 years and older.