US Department of the Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines
The year 2000 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is the fifth edition of the
US federal government's nutrition policy. It defines guidelines and nutrition education
activities to encourage improved health for Americans ages 2 years and above. The guidelines
recommend food choices that promote good health and prevent disease.
The USDA presents the "ABC's for your health" through ten guidelines:
AIM FOR FITNESS . . .
- Aim for a healthy weight: Choose a healthful assortment of foods that include vegetables,
fruits, grains (especially whole grains), skim milk, fish, lean meat, poultry, and beans.
Choose foods that are low in fat and added sugars. Whatever the food, eat sensible portions.
- Be physically active each day: Aim to accumulate at least 30 minutes (adults) or 60
minutes (children) of moderate physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily.
BUILD A HEALTHY BASE . . .
- Let the Pyramid guide your food choices: Create a healthy eating pattern by starting
with the three food groups at the base of the Pyramid.
- Choose a variety of grains daily, especially whole grains: Whole grains provide a number
of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other protective substances that contribute to good health.
- Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables daily: Different fruits and vegetables are rich
in different nutrients. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories.
- Keep food safe to eat: Foods that are safe from harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and
chemical contaminants are vital for healthful eating. Safe means that the food poses little
risk of food borne illnesses.
CHOOSE SENSIBLY . . .
- Choose a diet that is low in saturated fat, low in cholesterol and moderate in total fat:
Foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol tend to raise blood cholesterol.
- Choose beverages and foods to moderate your intake of sugars: Take care not to let soft
drinks or other sweets crowd out other foods you need to maintain health, such as low-fat
milk or other good sources of calcium.
- Choose and prepare foods with less salt: Many people can reduce their chances of
developing high blood pressure by consuming less salt.
- If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation: Alcoholic beverages supply
calories, but few nutrients.
Who created the USDA Diet?
Since 1980, the USDA and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have
jointly appointed a Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee to publish the Dietary
Guidelines for Americans. The committtee of prominent nutrition and health experts,
review scientific and medical knowledge current at the time and recommend revisions
to existing dietary guidelines.
The committee appointed for the year 2000 guide was chaired by Cuberto Garza, M.D. PhD.
Medical Studies
The guidelines are mandated to contain nutritional and dietary information and to set
guidelines for the general public; be based on the preponderance of scientific and medical
knowledge, current, at the time of publication; and to be promoted by each Federal agency
in carrying out any Federal food, nutrition, or health programs.
Cautionary Notes
Advancements in food nutrition, changes in food consumption and changes in lifestyle
impact the recommendations provided in support of this guide. The guide is updated i
every five years and may not address recent advancements and trends.
Additional Resources
Nutrition and Your Health: Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2000, 5th Edition
Using the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (consumer pamphlet)
