Trump’s Diet Advice: Athlete Eating for All?

President Trump orders changes to the food pyramid – Photo: Lovekin

Trump Administration Unveils New Dietary Guidelines, Prioritizing Protein

A shift in nutritional advice, championed by President Trump, emphasizes “real food” and a protein-rich diet.

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the “2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA)” on January 15, 2026.
• The new guidelines invert the traditional food pyramid, placing protein and whole foods at the center.
• Recommendations include increased protein intake (1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight) and limiting processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates.
• Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. lauded the changes as a return to “basics.”

The way Americans think about food may be undergoing a significant overhaul. A few days ago, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA), at the direction of President Donald Trump’s administration, jointly released the “2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA).” These guidelines, often referred to as the “Nutrition Pyramid,” represent a dramatic departure from previous recommendations.

A Pyramid Turned Upside Down

The new food pyramid is believed to be the “opposite” of traditional nutritional guidelines, prioritizing protein and whole, unprocessed foods (“real food”) over carbohydrates. For decades, carbohydrates formed the base of the dietary pyramid, suggesting they should be consumed in the largest quantities. Now, that foundation is shifting.

In a joint statement, the HHS and USDA emphasized a simple, clear message: “Eat real food.” This translates to a focus on foods rich in protein, unsweetened whole milk, fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains, while significantly reducing intake of highly processed foods, added sugars, refined carbohydrates, and artificial additives.

The old-fashioned food pyramid – Photo: REALFOOD

The HHS also recommends choosing sugar-free beverages and limiting alcohol intake to promote overall health. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called the changes “back to basics” and praised President Trump’s leadership in redefining recommendations that had been considered ineffective for decades.

Protein Takes Center Stage

One of the most notable aspects of the new guidelines is the recommended protein intake. The guidelines set specific benchmarks, calling for 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day – almost double the approximately 0.8 grams/kg/day previously recommended by many American nutrition experts. This increased protein intake is intended to support muscle maintenance, immune function, and energy metabolism, mirroring recommendations for individuals who exercise regularly.

The New Nutrition Pyramid – Photo: REALFOOD

Previously, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines were updated every five years. Traditional dietary patterns, particularly in recent decades, tended to emphasize carbohydrates as the primary source of energy, with grains, bread, and pasta forming the base of the food pyramid.

A Shift in Food Group Priorities

The new structure also brings significant changes in food group priorities. Instead of emphasizing “low fat,” the new guidelines recommend consuming natural fats found in whole foods, such as meat, whole milk, nuts, and healthy vegetable oils (olive oil, avocado oil, etc.). Simultaneously, intake of refined breads, processed grains, and sugary drinks should be significantly limited.

Many international nutrition experts appreciate the emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods and proteins, but some express concerns. Registered dietitian Grace A. Derocha argues that while increased protein intake is beneficial, overemphasis on foods rich in saturated fat, like red meat, butter, and whole milk, may conflict with recommendations to limit saturated fat to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Derocha believes that maintaining long-term health requires a balanced lifestyle tailored to individual circumstances, culture, and economic realities.

President Donald Trump’s meal photo controversy – Photo: BI

Corinne Bush, CEO of the American Dietetic Association, praised the new guidelines’ focus on whole foods but noted that the emphasis on animal-based foods over plant-based nutrients may not align with some modern public health research.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the lack of specific alcohol consumption limits in the new guidelines, sparking debate about the role of nutritional policy in controlling lifestyle habits. While some groups advocate for specific limits, the current government simply recommends “drink less.”

The media also noted past photos of President Trump consuming foods like hamburgers and potato chips, items that would be considered less healthy under the new nutritional standards.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/tong-thong-trump-dao-nguoc-thap-dinh-duong-khuyen-nhan-loai-song-nhu-van-dong-vien-20260115101059126.htm