October 2012 Summary

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) released Food Patterns as part of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These food patterns are designed for each person to meet nutrient goals without exceeding energy requirements based on a variety of factors. Patterns describe a complete diet at 12 various calories levels and identify both types and amounts of foods to consume from five major food groups. The food groups include fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy. Each of the recommended foods are done so in their most nutrient-dense form. The term nutrient-dense in this case, refers to foods that do not have added calories from the addition of solid fats, added sugars, or added refined starches, or by the solid fats naturally present in the food.

The typical American diet falls short of the recommended USDA Food Patterns. Intakes from most food groups are below the recommended amounts including fruits, vegetables, dairy seafood, and oils. Calories from solid fats and added sugars (SoFAS) are consumed almost 3 times what they should be. Many nutrition-guidance messages tell American to “eat more” or “increase intake” of foods such as fruits, vegetables and dairy. While these messages are usually coupled with messages regarding guidance about nutrient-dense choices, many consumers fail to understand those details.

Question 1

It was fairly evenly split that between everyone about whether Americans fall into a certain eating category versus a “grey” area of people who can’t be easily placed into one category or another.  Alana stated that people try to make small, healthy changes in their eating habits through adding fruits or veggies, cutting back on soda, etc. Taylor also mentioned that it’s easy to have a “we” versus “them” mentality simply because of the profession we are in and the knowledge we have.

On the other hand, Amy believes that Americans consume more “junk foods” that would fall into the typical diet category. Emily summed it up well in saying that there is no perfect diet plan that will fit for everyone and there is always room for improvement, even with people who don’t often choose those “typical” food choices.

Question 2

This question had many great suggestions for practical things we could tell our clients as soon-to-be dietitians regarding making meals as a family to eat. Nate would encourage his clients to make eating together a priority while Alana suggested even making meals that would taste like meals purchased in restaurants. Many people suggested freezer meals or crock-pot dishes that could be ready when everyone gets home from work.

Another suggestion by most was planning ahead. It’s so easy to get home without a plan and turn to fact, convenience foods because actually preparing something would just take too much time and effort. Erin talked about a woman who created a monthly schedule of dinner for the family so she would always know what she needed to purchase at the store and other family members could help out with meal preparation. Taylor also discussed “weakness” foods and that it’s ok to have these in moderation as long as they are not used as replacements for meals. If we all didn’t allow ourselves to have our “weakness” foods every once in a while, that is all we would want until we got it! Overall, there were some great, practical suggestions from everyone that I know I will keep in mind when counseling clients.

Question 3

The last question was very interesting to read responses from because there has always been discussion of what can be done to help end the obesity epidemic in America today. The second article stated that reduction of empty calorie food and beverages along with providing messaging about healthy foods is the only answer. Everyone who replied stated that they believed a reduction in empty calorie food and beverages would aid in the obesity epidemic but no one believed that it would totally fix the problem.

As far as messaging goes, Kelsey made a great point that “Knowledge does not dictate behavior.” Many people realize that the foods they purchase are not the best choices but yet they still purchase them. Angela also brought up the New York soda legislation suggesting that limiting the consumption of empty calorie beverage choices will only cause more people to desire and crave the item.

Overall, I believe this article held great information regarding how Americans continue to eat, and unfortunately the obesity epidemic is probably not going to be ending soon. Everyone had some great and practical suggestions to discuss with our clients in the near future.