Every five years, two of the nation’s largest government agencies, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), develop the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines on dietary habits are the basis for federal food and nutrition education programs, and serve as a roadmap for Americans to achieve a balanced lifestyle.

ABA's Dr. Maureen Storey, senior vice president for science policy, has been very engaged throughout the current Dietary Guideline process. In fact, she delivered oral testimony before the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee late last year, and emphasized the need for energy balance, something more commonly referred to as "calories in and calories out." This is the essential equation for effectively managing one’s weight.

Today marks the final public meeting in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines process.  As HHS and USDA review the Committee's recommendations, as well as public comments - both oral and written, we look forward to guidelines that encourage sound nutrition and physical activity recommendations that will help Americans live healthy lives, rather than singling out any one food or beverage.

Please check back to Sip & Savor later this year for more on this important topic.