First and foremost, the committee recommends eating more bean s, peas and lentils, while reducing the intake of red and processed meats. Beans, peas and lentils are lower in saturated fat than red meat, and they contain fiber.
The 2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines are set to emphasize a shift towards plant-based foods, reflecting a growing body of research that supports the health benefits of such diets. The guidelines, which are updated every five years, will likely recommend reducing the intake of red and processed meats due to their links to increased risks of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Instead, the focus will be on incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds into daily diets. This change aims to address not only health outcomes but also environmental sustainability and food security. The guidelines will also consider the nutritional needs across different life stages, from infancy to older adulthood, ensuring that the recommendations are inclusive and adaptable to various dietary patterns and cultural food practices.