Health professionals recognize the benefits associated with a healthful eating plan based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, including:
- Decreased risk of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers
- Decreased risk of overweight and obesity
- Decreased risk of micronutrient deficiencies
The challenge is translating this nutrition knowledge into strategies, programs, and policies that can help Americans make healthier food choices.
The public is already flooded with nutrition and diet information from multiple sources. As a result, they are sometimes confused about what, how much, or even how often they should eat.
Nutrition professionals trying to influence dietary change must take into account a person’s personal food preferences as well as their level of awareness and interest in making healthier choices. In addition, environmental factors within families, organizations, and communities must be considered.
As these challenges are faced, science-based tools and information are needed. CDC has compiled professional resources including:
- The latest nutrition surveillance data and trends
- Key nutritional guidelines
- CDC-supported programs and resources
CDC Vital Signs: Reducing Sodium in Children's Diets
About 1 in 6 children ages 8-17 years has raised blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Lowering sodium in children's diets today can help prevent heart disease tomorrow, especially for those who are overweight.
The State Indicator Report on Fruits & Vegetables, 2013 [PDF- 1.23Mb] provides national and state-level information on how many fruits and vegetables people are eating, and highlights key areas within communities and schools that can be improved to increase fruit and vegetable access, availability, and affordability.
The National Action Guide [PDF-160k] summarizes the national data on fruit and vegetable consumption and policy and environmental supports. It also provides potential actions that government and business leaders, coalitions, community-based organizations, and professionals can take to support Americans' eating more fruits and vegetables, along with resources for taking action.
Weight Management Research to Practice Series
The CDC Weight Management Research to Practice Series is designed to summarize the science on a weight management topic for health professionals and the lay audience.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010
Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides advice about how good dietary habits for people aged 2 years and older can promote health and reduce risk for major chronic diseases.
Also available, a brochure for consumers: Let's Eat for the Health of It. (PDF-967k)
This Web site features practical information and tips to help Americans build healthier diets.
Food safety sites designed to help consumers get the latest information on food safety and food recalls.