The American Heart Association has issued a statement responding to the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, welcoming several science-based recommendations while highlighting specific areas of concern that could impact cardiovascular health. The organization commended the guidelines' emphasis on increasing intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains while limiting consumption of added sugars, refined grains, highly processed foods, saturated fats, and sugary drinks, noting these elements align with its longstanding dietary guidance.
However, the Heart Association expressed concern that recommendations regarding salt seasoning and red meat consumption could inadvertently lead consumers to exceed recommended limits for sodium and saturated fats, which are primary drivers of cardiovascular disease. While the guidelines highlight whole-fat dairy, the Association encourages consumption of low-fat and fat-free dairy products for heart health benefits. The organization also urged more scientific research on both the appropriate amount of protein consumption and the best protein sources for optimal health, encouraging consumers to prioritize plant-based proteins, seafood, and lean meats while limiting high-fat animal products including red meat, butter, lard, and tallow.
The Association emphasized its commitment to working with the administration to reduce the burden of chronic disease, particularly for the next generation, and to help consumers make healthier choices. This includes promoting healthy dietary patterns that significantly reduce consumption of added sugars and sodium. The organization noted it has long advocated for policies to reduce sugary drink consumption despite opposition from the soda industry, and this remains a major priority. The Association is also committed to working with the administration to inform the development of an operational definition of ultraprocessed food, building upon its recent science advisory on ultraprocessed foods.
Additionally, the Heart Association is prepared to collaborate on initiatives to improve understanding of healthy food's role in preventing and managing chronic disease, including its Health Care by Food and Periodic Table of Food programs. The organization will issue updated guidance later this year as part of its usual process, supporting the shared goal of providing a robust, science-first roadmap for a healthier America. For decades, the Heart Association has issued science-based recommendations for healthy eating and remains committed to informing the public about healthy eating practices.
