The Connections Bridgewater-Somerville Edition April/May 2026

DINING OUT HEALTH & WELLNESS

PAGE 40

FOOD THOUGHT

o A Pi

for

nch

f...

Misguided Guidelines By Lori Kolodin, MPH, RD

T

Savory Yogurt Dip

he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released a new set of di etary guidelines earlier this year. The goal of making Americans healthier is well-intend ed but poorly executed because this daunting task is complex and subject to individuality based upon genetics, economics and culture. Rather than overhauling and replacing the food pyramid altogether, (it was first intro duced in 1992), I predict the 2026 version will have little effect on reducing chronic disease, as its broad optics offer very little constructive advice outside of the key mes sage to avoid ultra-processed foods. When I was in elementary school, I re member a poster in the school’s cafeteria displaying the basic four food groups, which was both bold and eye-catching. In junior high, I recall the mantra, “You are what you eat”, again another colorful banner. They both gave me pause to think about nutrition. Today’s pyramid optics are colorful but of fer little clarity as a specific messenger. If you navigate the USDA website (www. dietaryguidelines.gov), you can review Di etary Guidelines for Americans, the 9-page document which interprets and explains what the new pyramid alone does not.

revealing how many energy nutrients (fats, carbohydrates and proteins) were in pack aged food based on serving size. In 2006, the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act was passed, which identified potential allergens such as nuts, shellfish and eggs that could manifest in anaphylac tic reactions for the most vulnerable. Both laws appeared truly useful to the American consumer. The problem with this campaign is that it reveals very little new information. I read an article recently about how in dividual states are enacting food safety warning labels specifically for food dyes and other additives. WOW! This will cer tainly contribute to a lack of confidence in our already compromised food supply. Who would choose to purchase any food that has a warning label on its package? Why not just ban those ingredients completely? In the past, Congress ordered the complete remov al of deleterious chemicals, i.e. trans fats and cyclamates. The best way to educate the public is with fundamental images or statements. I always felt public health messaging was challenging because it must have broad appeal, yet not be insulting with overly simplified informa tion. Throughout my career, I found the best way to help my patients is to inspire them by determining how they spend their time, what their family life is like and what is the end game? To achieve that, together we break it down into short-term goals which take time and trust. Let’s connect on creating that team for you! Lori Kolodin, MPH, RD is the owner of LSKNutrition , a nutrition counseling prac tice serving individuals and families for over 25 years. Her office is in Martinsville and virtual sessions are an option. More infor mation is found on her website, LSKNutrition.com. past, Congress ordered the complete remov

• 16 oz. plain Greek yogurt • ½ tsp. ground cumin • 1 tsp. ground turmeric • ½ tsp. ground coriander • ¼ tsp. white pepper • ½ tsp. paprika • ¼ cup dehydrated vegetables

The problem with this campaign is that it re veals very little new information. Yes, whole foods are the elixir of our diet. We need to consume more of them. We need to cook and use our kitchens. We need to take time to eat meals and not grab garbage or eat on the go. Some of us can eat dairy and nuts while oth ers must avoid them altogether or risk dis comfort, illness or even death. There’s a full spectrum of possibilities with food. The Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990, (NLEA), was a defining mo ment for public service announcements. It broadened consumer knowledge by simply

Mix everything together and place in refrigerator overnight. Serve with crunchy fresh vegetables, your favorite crackers or veggie chips.

ENJOY!

Submitted by: Lori Kolodin, RD, MPH LSKnutrition.com

theconnectionsnj.com