New US dietary guidelines urge less sugar, salt
The typical American diet is loaded with sugary and salty foods with high amounts of trans fats, say experts.
Special mention has been made about cutting back on sodium and sugar.
Experts realize that most processed food items sold in America already contains a lot of salt and sugar. This includes breakfast cereals and cocoa-based items. French fries and burgers have high sodium content.
Americans tend to consume about 2 servings or less of vegetables a day, against the recommendation of four servings or more.
Alarming statistics
According to the latest figures, nearly two-third of Americans are obese and close to half of the citizens do not take part in any physical activity.
Experts warn that a sedentary lifestyle and a poor diet can be significantly harmful in the long run, and sooner the Americans start making changes, the better.
One should ensure to choose wholegrain instead of refined grains products. Further, one should avoid solid fats and switch to healthier oils like olive oil or rice bran oil.
New Guidelines
A new feature of the guidelines is the recommendation that one ought to consume at least 8 ounces of fish every week.
Regular consumption of fish, especially omega-3 fish, has proved beneficial in keeping heart and mental problems at bay.
The guidelines also recommend 60 minutes of exercise a day. The guidelines clearly spell out the urgent need for Americans to step out and engage in strenuous physical activity.
Take the plunge
It is not really too difficult to incorporate these changes into your lifestyle.
One should ensure to choose wholegrain instead of refined grains products. Further, one should avoid solid fats and switch to healthier oils like olive oil or rice bran oil.
People should substitute snacks with fruits or healthy nuts. Last but not the least, one should take every opportunity to do something physically strenuous, even if it means forsaking the elevator.
