SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – With new dietary guidelines released by Washington, it can be confusing to know what is best for our bodies and for our families. Barton Health’s Dietitian Becky Espinel, RD, CNSC, says national guidelines are just that, a guide, and not a one-size-fits-all solution.
The first major U.S. Food Pyramid, the “Food Guide Pyramid,” was introduced by the USDA in 1992, replacing older guidelines and emphasizing grains at the base with fats, oils, and sweets at the top for sparing consumption, though Sweden published its first pyramid earlier in the 1970s.
Before the pyramid, the USDA used guides like the “Basic Four” (1956) and even a “Food Wheel” (1984). The 1992 pyramid was a significant step, visually communicating variety, moderation, and proportion for the first time in that format, though it later faced criticism for industry influence. Visuals over the years included “My Plate” and “My Pyramid,” and each time a new guide came out, there were little tweaks to the tops and bottoms of the pyramid.
Last week, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, marking the most significant reset of federal nutrition policy in decades. They put “real food” back at the forefront t prioritiz by prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods—protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains.
California Representative Kevin Kiley supported the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which President Trump signed into law on Wednesday. They did not want schools to only offer low and no-fat milk at school as was the previous requirement, and now match Kennedy’s recommendation of whole milk.
From Becky Espinel, RD, CNSC, Clinical Lead Dietitian with Barton Health:
The updated Dietary Guidelines introduce a new food pyramid that emphasizes protein, dairy and healthy fats, while continuing to highlight fruits, vegetables and whole grains and limiting added sugars and saturated fats.
From a dietitian’s perspective, it’s encouraging to see nutrient-dense foods remain central. However, the increased emphasis on red meat and full-fat dairy should be approached thoughtfully. Research continues to show that diets high in saturated fat are linked to higher cardiovascular risk, which is why many health organizations recommend prioritizing plant-based proteins, seafood and lean meats.
National guidelines are meant to be a framework, not a one-size-fits-all plan. A registered dietitian can help individuals apply these recommendations in a way that’s evidence-based, balanced and appropriate for their personal health needs.
The previous food pyramid:
