New Dietary Guidelines Released Amid Concerns Over America’s Chronic Health Crisis
New Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been released as national leaders continue to sound the alarm over the state of public health in the United States. Dr. Ben Carson, who has been working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a national advisor for nutrition, health, and housing, addressed the issue this week, calling attention to what he described as a historic challenge.
Dr. Carson said America is currently facing “the worst chronic health crisis in the nation’s history.” He added that “the Trump administration is laying the groundwork for revitalization, which is rooted in real nutritious food grown by our farmers and ranchers in America.”
By law, the USDA and the Department of Health and Human Resources are required to jointly publish updated dietary guidance every five years. These reports are designed to provide the public with the latest science-based nutrition recommendations. The newly released report, known as the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, outlines advice on what to eat and drink to promote overall health, meet nutritional needs, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
The guidelines come at a time when diet-related health concerns continue to rise. According to federal health data, “Ever since back in 1980, our nation’s diet-related chronic disease rates have risen.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that “over 40 percent of the roughly 73 million children in America, they have at least one chronic health condition.”
The long-term implications of these trends extend beyond individual health. Data also show that “three quarters are not eligible for our military service due to their health,” highlighting how nutrition and chronic disease affect national readiness and workforce sustainability.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans are intended to serve as a foundational resource for individuals, families, schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers. They influence everything from school meal programs to nutrition education and public health initiatives nationwide.
Dr. Carson and USDA officials emphasize that improving health outcomes will require a renewed focus on nutrient-dense foods and dietary patterns supported by American agriculture. Farmers and ranchers play a central role in producing the foods highlighted in the guidelines.
A more detailed breakdown of the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans and what they recommend for consumers will be shared in a full report at a later date.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.