Nutritional Guidelines

Definition

Nutritional guidelines are recommendations that help individuals make informed choices about their diet and nutrition to maintain good health.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Nutritional guidelines are systematically developed statements, often informed by scientific evidence, that provide advice on food choices and dietary patterns to promote overall health and prevent chronic diseases. These guidelines take into account factors such as age, gender, and activity level, and are designed to ensure the population receives adequate nutrients.

Benefits

• Help in maintaining a balanced diet
• Reduce risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
• Support health and wellbeing across various age groups
• Provide a framework for informed food choices

Examples

• Dietary Guidelines for Americans
• World Health Organization dietary recommendations
• Food pyramids or plates

Additional Information

• Importance: Nutritional guidelines are crucial for public health as they guide individuals and policymakers in creating healthy dietary patterns that support lifelong health and prevent nutrient deficiencies and excesses.

Related Terms

• Caloric Needs

References

• Dietary Guidelines for Americans
• World Health Organization: Healthy diet