The Evolution of US Dietary Guidelines: Who Makes Them and How
The Evolution of US Dietary Guidelines: Who Makes Them and How
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans are an authoritative and regularly updated source of dietary recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of chronic diseases. These guidelines are developed jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). This article delves into the history and composition of these guidelines, focusing on their development and key milestones.
Genesis and Early Development
The journey of the emph{Dietary Guidelines for Americans} began in 1977 with the release of the Dietary Goals for the United States by the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs. This report sparked controversy and debate within the scientific and public health communities. It laid the groundwork for future guidelines by setting initial dietary goals for the nation.
First Edition: 1980
In response to public demand for authoritative and consistent dietary guidelines, the first (1980) version of the emph{Dietary Guidelines for Americans} was co-issued by HHS and USDA. This first edition was based on the most current scientific knowledge available and was directed towards healthy Americans. It generated significant discussions among nutrition scientists, consumer groups, and the food industry.
Second Edition: 1985
The 1985 edition was nearly identical to the first, with minor changes for clarity and reflecting new scientific knowledge on the relationship between diet and chronic diseases. This version received wide acceptance and served as a framework for consumer education messages.
Legislation and Continuous Review
Beginning in 1990, the 1990 National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act mandated publication of the emph{Dietary Guidelines} every five years, starting from 1995. This legislation also required a review of all Federal publications containing dietary advice for the public.
The Advisory Process
The development process for the emph{Dietary Guidelines} involves the establishment of an Advisory Committee, which is responsible for reviewing existing guidelines and recommending any necessary changes. For example, the 1993 charter established the 1995 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, which in turn recommended revisions to the 1990 edition in 1994.
In 1995, the Advisory Committee's published report served as the basis for the fourth edition of emph{Nutrition and Your Health: Dietary Guidelines for Americans}, which provided refined recommendations and numerical guidelines for dietary fat and saturated fat intakes.
Conclusion
The emph{Dietary Guidelines for Americans} have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting a commitment to stay abreast of the latest scientific research and to provide clear and actionable advice to the public. The collaborative efforts of HHS and USDA, along with the establishment of advisory committees, ensure that these guidelines remain a vital resource in the ongoing fight against chronic diseases.