DGAC urged to be guided by realism

Brief comments from dozens of organizations were submitted as video presentations or delivered live virtually for the third public meeting of the DGAC held Sept. 12-13. Directed to a panel of 18 committee members, commenters responded to scientific questions identified by the Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) together with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Campbell Genn, director of nutrition policy at the Sugar Association noted that objectively examining the evidence about what works and is practical in improving dietary patterns should guide the drafting of the dietary guidelines. Ms. Genn cited evidence that reducing sugar intake alone hasn’t reduced obesity despite a 30% decrease in added sugar consumption since 2000, a period over which child and adult obesity rates increased.

Not all foods with added sugars have the same impact on health and diet quality, Ms. Genn said. She noted that sugar serves functional roles in food and removing it in some instances results in increased calorie content.

The committee should focus on practical guidance in the 2025 guidelines, such as telling consumers to cap the amount of sugar-sweetened beverages consumed each week, she added.

Seeking to put intake into perspective, Ms. Genn reminded the committee that “when consumed in moderation real sugar continues to bring taste, function and pleasure to a healthy, balanced diet.” Read the full article here: DGAC urged to be guided by realism