American College of Cardiology comments on new dietary guidelines for Americans

American College of Cardiology

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American College of Cardiology President Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC, issued the following statement on the release of new Dietary Guidelines for Americans by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“The ACC acknowledges and appreciates the release of new federal nutrition guidance and remains committed to helping clinicians and patients use it to support heart health,” said ACC President Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC.

“We welcome the inclusion of several important science-based recommendations, including a focus on eating whole fruits and vegetables; limiting added sugars, highly processed foods, saturated fats and sugary drinks; and incorporating whole grains and healthy fats from whole foods like meats, seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, olives and avocados. ACC looks forward to providing additional evidence-based feedback regarding the impacts of high protein and high fat dairy products on heart health and opportunities for further research when updates to our 2019 Prevention Guideline are released later this year.

“We are closely reviewing the recommendations and encourage clinicians to discuss practical, culturally appropriate healthy eating options with their patients. Even the healthiest among us can benefit from heart‑healthy eating patterns. Adopting a healthy diet is especially helpful for people at risk for – or who already have – heart disease or related risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.”

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is a global leader dedicated to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. For more than 75 years, the ACC has empowered a community of over 60,000 cardiovascular professionals across more than 140 countries with cutting-edge education and advocacy, rigorous professional credentials, and trusted clinical guidance. From its world-class JACC Journals and NCDR registries to its Accreditation Services, global network of Chapters and Sections, and CardioSmart patient initiatives, the College is committed to creating a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or connect on social media at @ACCinTouch.