March Is National Nutrition Month—So What’s Up with the New Dietary Guidelines?

Did you know March is National Nutrition Month? Nutrition has been making headlines following the release of the 2026 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). In my 20-year career as a dietitian, I’ve never seen this much attention—or controversy—surrounding the DGAs. Typically updated every five years, these guidelines often go unnoticed by the general public. This year, however, claims of “turning the food pyramid upside down” have sparked confusion and debate.

This slogan is an interesting marketing choice, considering the traditional food pyramid hasn’t been used since 2011. For the past
15 years, MyPlate has served as the primary visual nutrition guide. While not perfect, it was a research-based improvement and better aligned with nutrition science.

Beyond visuals, the DGAs include detailed nutrition recommendations. Historically, these were developed by an independent advisory committee of nutrition experts—mostly PhDs—who spent years reviewing current research through a transparent process open to public comment. This year, however, those expert recommendations were largely ignored. Instead, the current administration selected a
small group of advisors who developed new guidance behind closed doors. Seven of the nine advisors reportedly have ties to the dairy, beef, or supplement industries, raising concerns about bias. The resulting guidelines contain conflicting messages and questionable research interpretations.

Since their introduction in 1980, the DGAs have consistently emphasized:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Protein from both animal and plant sources
• Whole grains, lentils, and legumes
• Healthy unsaturated fats
• Limiting added sugars, sodium (≤2,300 mg/day), and saturated fat (≤10% of daily calories)

What’s New This Time?

The updated visual places animal protein, dairy, and vegetables at the forefront, while plant-based proteins are barely noticeable. Whole grains appear narrowly at the bottom of the triangle.

Additional updates include:

• Stronger recommendations to limit ultra-processed foods
• Increased protein needs for adults (1.2–1.6 g/kg body weight, up from 0.8 g/kg)
• Greater emphasis on animal protein and whole-fat dairy
• Added sugars limited to 10 grams per meal, with no added sugar recommended
  before age 11
• A focus on gut health through increased fiber intake—despite fiber-rich foods being visually minimized

Where the Confusion Lies

The biggest critique of the new DGAs is contradictory messaging. Foods high in saturated fat—such as whole-fat dairy and red meat—are emphasized, while saturated fat intake is still capped at 10% of daily calories. For someone eating 2,000 calories per day, that limit is about 22 grams. Regularly consuming the foods highlighted in the visual guide can quickly exceed this amount, creating a disconnect between recommendations and real-life application.

The dramatic increase in protein recommendations—50–100% higher than previous minimums—adds to the confusion. While some individuals may benefit from higher protein intake, needs vary widely, and most Americans already consume enough protein. Excess
protein does not provide added health benefits and can contribute to excess calorie intake. The guidelines also lack clarity on protein quality, variety, and plant-based options.

Additionally, while low-carb diets are not explicitly endorsed, the placement of grains may imply that carbohydrates should be limited. Nutrition science consistently supports whole grains and complex carbohydrates as essential sources of energy, fiber, and brain fuel. Unnecessary restriction can lead to low energy, cravings, and disordered eating patterns.

A Simpler Takeaway

Rather than getting caught up in pyramids and plates, focus on one small addition this month: add fruit to breakfast, beans to a salad, an extra vegetable snack, or cook at home one more night per week. Think nutrition by addition. The DGAs are meant to guide healthier choices, but real-life nutrition depends on individual needs, preferences, culture, and access. For personalized, evidence-based guidance, consider meeting with a Registered Dietitian. Never underestimate the power of nutrition.

Lisa Fligor, MS, RDN, Tahoe Forest Health System Dietitian