The latest nutrition information and how it relates to your health.
Studies Show. . .
Well designed studies are those which follow some basic scientific principles. After data is collected, these are the commonly accepted steps in good research design:
- Develop a hypothesis:
This is an “educated guess” based on past research and the scientist’s own knowledge. - Test the hypothesis:
The gold standard of scientific research is the double-blind study in which neither the researcher nor the test subjects know whether they are in the test or the control group. - Develop a theory:
This is always a work in progress. There are no facts in science, as everything is open to reinterpretation as future evidence is exposed. - Retest the hypothesis:
The best study results are able to be repeated by other, independent scientists.
Statement from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics concerning the 2026 Dietary Guidelines for Americans:
What the Academy Supports:
Encouraging nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Recommendations to limit highly processed foods and added sugars.
Maintaining a limit of no more than 10% of total calories from saturated fat, while prioritizing healthier fats.
Increased attention to fiber and microbiome health.
Where the Academy Has Concerns:
Saturated Fat: Emphasis on butter, beef tallow, red meat and full fat dairy is inconsistent with the recommendation of limiting saturated fat to 10% of total calories. Evidence shows that these foods are high in saturated fat, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Dairy: The new guidelines do not consider individuals who cannot or choose not to consume dairy products.
“Some of the recommendations in the DGAs are not aligned with the current body of evidence and will create challenges for implementation, particularly across federal nutrition programs that serve millions of Americans,” said Academy President Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RDN, CDN, FAND. “Registered dietitian nutritionists and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered, play a critical role in applying the DGAs in ways that protect public health and meet the needs of a broad spectrum of populations. However, elements of this version of the guidelines will make that work difficult.”