Dietitians NZ gives new food guidelines the thumbs up

Dietitians NZ gives new food guidelines the thumbs up

Dietitians across the country applaud the common sense advice in the updated Eating and Activity Guidelines, released earlier today by Associate Minister of Health Hon Peseta Sam Lotu-liga.

Angela Berrill, Dietitians NZ spokesperson, says this is an important and timely release: “Nutrition recommendations have been debated at length over the last few years. It is good to have an up-to-date set of evidenced based guidelines to help health professionals deliver clear and consistent advice.”

While it is encouraging that many of the guidelines remain similar, Dietitians NZ is happy to see some movement in other areas.

Angela explains: “There is welcome emphasis on more whole and less processed foods including vegetables, fruits, low- and reduced-fat dairy and whole grains, and eating more protein from plant foods, fish, and seafood. We are also pleased to see clarity on fats – focusing less on the amount eaten and more on the quality and type used, such as swapping saturated fat with unsaturated fats.”

The guidelines themselves are considered more practical, giving useful tips and guidance on making healthier choices. “If we aim to follow the Eating and Activity statements made in the new Guidelines, New Zealanders will be well on their way to living more healthily,” says Angela.

When giving specialised food advice, Dietitians always consider the lifestyle and needs of the individual. Therefore the new activity statements are welcomed; providing advice on why and how to reduce sitting time, doing muscle-strengthening activities, and the extra health benefits of increasing physical activity levels.

As the leaders in food and health, Dietitians fully support the release of these guidelines and will be emphasising the updated messages in their practice, helping individuals to find personalised and workable solutions to their food and nutrition concerns.

More information on the guidelines can be found at www.health.govt.nz/eatingandactivityguidelines and accompanying health education resources for the public atwww.healthed.govt.nz.

To find a registered Dietitian in your area please see www.dietitians.org.nz

ENDS

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