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Trends in food consumption: implications for infant feeding
1New England Regional Primate Research Center, Harvard Medical School, Southborough, Massachusetts 01745.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 1, 1990
Summary
Americans should reduce fat, sugar, and salt intake, increasing fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Current dietary data is limited, but trends are improving, supporting general nutritional advice.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
Background:
- A consensus exists regarding recommended dietary changes for Americans.
- Current data on American eating habits are fragmented and outdated due to product evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the general advice on American dietary consumption.
- To assess the direction of current dietary trends.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of existing dietary data and trends.
- Review of scientific consensus on fat, sugar, and salt intake.
Main Results:
- Many dietary changes are moving in the right direction, though data is limited.
- No evidence of risk at recommended fat intake (30% of calories).
- Increasing reliance on the food industry for convenient food options is anticipated.
Conclusions:
- General dietary advice for Americans is supported and should not be questioned.
- Children will adapt to family dietary patterns.
- Overemphasis on risks of specific nutrients may arise but lacks a basis for questioning overall guidance.