Nutrition News Alerts
American Heart Association Recommendations Call for Americans to Establish Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Habits
In the June 2006 issue of Circulation, the American Heart Association (AHA) released new diet and lifestyle recommendations for Americans to promote cardiovascular health. The AHA Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations are presented as a general lifestyle prescription, not a detailed diet plan.
The report mentions the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, rich in lowfat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as an example of a healthy dietary pattern that meets AHA guidelines.
The DASH diet is also recommended by the federal government as a way to get adequate nutrients while staying within calorie needs. In addition, the report encourages 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week and recognizes the vital role that health professionals, restaurants, the food industry, schools and local policies play in helping the public meet these goals.