From the Publisher’s Desk
Muhammad M. Chaudry, PhD, President & CEO
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans are being developed to help individuals make healthier food choices and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Grounded in the latest scientific research, these guidelines emphasize nutrient-dense eating patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting added sugars, saturated fats, sodium, and alcohol.
A notable feature of these guidelines is their focus on personalized nutrition, allowing individuals to adapt their diets to align with cultural, economic, and personal preferences. By addressing food insecurity and promoting equitable access to healthy foods, the guidelines aim to reduce health disparities and improve public health across diverse communities.
Specific recommendations include increasing the consumption of plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and peas while reducing red and processed meats. These changes not only support individual health but also align with broader public health goals, including lowering healthcare costs and promoting long-term well-being.
The guidelines provide tailored advice for all life stages, from infancy to older adulthood, ensuring that everyone can follow a diet that supports their growth and overall health. Public engagement is integral to the development process, with opportunities to provide feedback online during the 60-day comment period starting December 11, 2024. The public is invited to share thoughts online, and can also provide oral comments on January 16, 2025. Your feedback is important to make sure the guidelines meet the needs of everyone.
IFANCA’s commitment to promoting healthful, culturally appropriate eating aligns with the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines. By advocating for halal food options, IFANCA supports access to nutritious foods that meet diverse dietary needs. Implementing these guidelines requires education through public campaigns, school programs, and community events, along with policies to improve access to affordable, healthy foods, including plant-based options. Ongoing research and monitoring will ensure these efforts effectively promote healthier eating, reduce chronic disease, and improve public health.
We encourage our readers to explore these guidelines and join the conversation to shape a healthier future for all. For more information, visit the official website where you can access the full report and provide your comments. www.dietaryguidelines.gov
Sincerely,
Muhammad Munir Chaudry, PhD
President