The Pyramid Flipped

 For decades the Food Pyramid told Americans how to eat healthy, It showed generations what was good for you and what was bad. Now it's being literally flipped and a whole new set of rules and suggestions are in place. Will they make us healthier? it's too early to tell.

The US Department of Agriculture and  RFK Junior have released a new set of dietary guidelines.It champions proteins and healthy grains while minimizing grains.Kennedy wants his fellow Americans to eat real food.Protein stars in the top of the triangle.They should be healthy such as lean meats like chicken and turkey.Fat, once a villain, is now a hero.However it should come from healthy fats sources such as avocados.It is declaring a war on sugar ,placing new found focus on avoiding it all together or ten milligrams per meal.(Kennedy is also pushing for SNAP benefits not to include soda and anything else sweet) Recommendations for alcohol consumption has radically changed too. There are no more numerical limits on how much grown women and men can drink.The department stresses no amount is really good and to minimize consumption.To be honest recommendations seem vague and it's really up to the consumer to decide what's good or adequate for them.

The last time the Pyramid was changed was back in 2005. Then grains and vegetables were the most required foods in the American. diet. Meat portions  were smaller. Ideology was even different when the Food Plate debuted in 2011 The pyramid was replaced with a dinner plate and the portions displayed in a pie chart or plate. Veggies were the largest followed by proteins, then grains and fruits however this was also based on individual needs.It was basically save six to eleven servings of grains and starches. These included bread ,rice ,cereal and pasta. Vegetables were three to five servings a day while fruit was two to four servings. Protein was categorized as dairy and meat.It included fish, beans eggs and nuts. Limit fats, oils and sweets,If this works for you then stay with it.The new diet is red meat rich  which only those with money can afford.Grains are also important so still have brown rice and whole wheat bread. As far as dairy stick to low fat milks or plant based ones. This also goes for creamers, cheese,whipped cream and especially ice cream. 

These are only temporary rules. A new administration will probably return to the original requirements. In the meantime, just say with what your doctor recommends and your body needs.