The American Heart Association has responded to the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, welcoming several science-based recommendations while highlighting areas of concern that could impact public health. The organization commended the emphasis on increasing intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains while limiting consumption of added sugars, refined grains, highly processed foods, saturated fats, and sugary drinks. These elements align closely with the longstanding dietary guidance of the American Heart Association and other public health authorities.
The Association expressed concern that recommendations regarding salt seasoning and red meat consumption could inadvertently lead consumers to exceed recommended limits for sodium and saturated fats, which are primary drivers of cardiovascular disease. While the guidelines highlight whole-fat dairy, the Heart Association encourages consumption of low-fat and fat-free dairy products, which can be beneficial to heart health. The organization has advocated for policies to reduce sugary drink consumption despite opposition from the soda industry, noting this remains a major priority.
Protein consumption represents another area where the Association seeks more scientific clarity. The organization urges more research on both the appropriate amount of protein consumption and the best protein sources for optimal health. Pending that research, consumers are encouraged to prioritize plant-based proteins, seafood, and lean meats while limiting high-fat animal products including red meat, butter, lard, and tallow, which are linked to increased cardiovascular risk. The Association maintains that protein is an essential component of a healthy diet.
The American Heart Association is committed to working with the administration to develop an operational definition of ultraprocessed food, building upon the Association's recent science advisory on ultraprocessed foods. This initiative aims to improve understanding of how food processing affects health outcomes. The organization also plans to collaborate on initiatives to improve understanding of the critical role healthy food can play in preventing and managing chronic disease, including the Association's Health Care by Food and Periodic Table of Food programs.
As part of its ongoing commitment to public health education, the American Heart Association will issue updated guidance later this year to provide what it describes as a robust, science-first roadmap for a healthier America. The organization remains committed to working with the administration to reduce the burden of chronic disease, particularly for the next generation, and to help consumers make healthier choices for themselves and their families. This includes promoting healthy dietary patterns that significantly reduce consumption of added sugars and sodium.
The Association's response to the dietary guidelines highlights the ongoing tension between evolving nutritional science and practical dietary recommendations. While welcoming many aspects of the new guidelines, the organization maintains that certain recommendations require careful interpretation to avoid unintended health consequences. The American Heart Association continues to advocate for science-based dietary guidance that prioritizes cardiovascular health, recognizing that dietary choices represent one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
