US dietary guidelines and saturated fat intake

NEW US DIETARY GUIDELINES: The Brown Heart Comment and Position As several of you know, new dietary guidelines were released last week from the US government health leadership. By and large, the basic principles that we emphasize in the Brown Heart are re-emphasized and to that end we strongly endorse: “prioritizing high-quality protein, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains” while steering clear of highly processed foods” However, one part of the guidelines have come under strong scrutiny —the interpretation that “butter/beef tallow/full-fat dairy are healthy, and saturated fat worries are over.” This is simply NOT supported by evidence and both the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Associations continue to recommend keeping saturated fat intake below 6% and 10% respectively. Another part of the guidelines that are concerning are stated best by the American Heart Association: “For example, we are concerned that recommendations regarding salt seasoning and red meat consumption could inadvertently lead consumers to exceed recommended limits for sodium and saturated fats, which are primary drivers of cardiovascular disease. While the guidelines highlight whole-fat dairy, the Heart Association encourages consumption of low-fat and fat-free dairy products, which can be beneficial to heart health” Bottom Line: For South Asians and “Brown Hearts” : Continue to practice Brown Heart principles of diet to increase protein intake, lower simple carb intake, lower ultra processed food AND continue to *keep your saturated fat intake definitely less than 10% of daily calories (and switch to polyunsaturated fats as methods of cooking and otherwise) We need to continue a sharp and laser focus on lowering heart attacks in our South Asian communities!