A new “pyramid” lands, the internet erupts, and we’re left asking the only question that matters: what should actually change on our plates? We take you past the viral graphic and into the real guidance, translating policy-speak into practical choices you can make this week. From protein hype to saturated fat limits, from kids and sugar to food access and cost, we connect the dots with clear, judgment-free advice.

We start by grounding the conversation in history—how the 1992 pyramid gave way to MyPyramid and then MyPlate—and why that plate was easy to teach across ages, cultures, and languages. Then we examine what’s new versus what’s noise. The saturated fat limit remains under 10%, yet the graphic leans harder into animal foods. We unpack how to reconcile those messages with smarter swaps: rotate seafood, choose lean cuts, mix in beans and lentils, use oils, and keep portions flexible. We also call out missing voices; it’s baffling that registered dietitians weren’t centered on the panel when they’re the ones who field public questions and rebuild trust.

Parents will find straight talk on kids and sugar. Strict rules can spark secrecy and binge-restrict patterns; a neutral, structured approach supports intuitive eating and calmer mealtimes. We touch on the much-cited JAMA study and why methods and dates matter before drawing sweeping conclusions. And because advice without access is a dead end, we focus on policy levers that make change real—SNAP and WIC improvements, culturally relevant options, and school meals that families can afford and kids will eat.

If you’ve felt whiplash from “eat more protein” while “watch saturated fat,” or wondered how the new USDA dietary guidelines fit your culture, budget, or health history, this conversation offers clarity you can use. Listen for practical takeaways, not perfection: adequate, consistent, and varied beats rigid rules every time. Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, share with a friend who’s confused by the new graphic, and leave a quick review to help others find us.

Show notes:

Trigger warning: this show is not medical, nutrition, or mental health treatment and is not a replacement for meeting with a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Mental Health Provider, or any other medical provider. You can find resources for how to find a provider, as well as crisis resources, in the show notes. Listener discretion is advised.

Resource links:

ANAD: https://anad.org/

NEDA: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

NAMI: https://nami.org/home

Action Alliance: https://theactionalliance.org/

NIH: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

How to find a provider:

https://map.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

https://www.healthprofs.com/us/nutritionists-dietitians?tr=Hdr_Brand

Suicide & crisis awareness hotline: call 988 (available 24/7)

Eating Disorder hotline: call or text 800-931-2237 (Phone line is available Monday-Thursday 11 am-9 pm ET and Friday 11 am-5 pm ET; text line is available Monday-Thursday 3-6 pm ET and Friday 1-5 pm ET)

If you are experiencing a psychiatric or medical emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

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