SPOKANE, Wash. — The Trump administration has rolled out new dietary guidelines that officials are calling the most significant change in nutrition in the nation’s history.
The recommendations, introduced by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., emphasize protein, fruits and vegetables while removing ultra-processed foods like fast food from recommended diets.
“I don’t know that the big overarching themes are that different than what most of us are already telling people that we want them to have balanced diets and a relationship with food that is healthy,” said Megan Vulcan, a nurse practitioner with MultiCare.
The updated guidelines feature a colorful, redesigned pyramid.
“I think the visual is helpful. I do like that the new pyramid is colorful and it’s pretty to look at. But I think people will need guidance to know what their plate should actually look like,” Vulcan said.
School lunch impact
The most significant impact may be felt in school cafeterias, where districts must follow federal nutrition standards.
Spokane Public Schools anticipates implementation could take years and expressed concerns about funding, particularly if schools are expected to serve more protein and prepare meals from scratch.
“It’s better to just try to have balanced meals. Make sure they’re portioned appropriately. And that we learned to listen to cues when we’re full,” Vulcan advised.
Health experts recommend consulting with doctors about how the new guidelines might apply to individual health needs.
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