DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The following is a statement provided by Adria Sheil-Brown, RD, LD:
Today the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010, which support the goals of reducing obesity, encouraging consumption of nutrient-rich foods, and increasing physical activity.
The Guidelines show that animal proteins are essential to the diet, as meat provides vital nutrients such as heme iron and vitamin B12 which many Americans lack.[1],[2] Pork, in particular, is a lean, low-calorie, nutrient-rich protein which can help with weight control. In fact, recent studies show eating lean meats such as pork can lead to weight loss by reducing hunger sensations, helping people feel full and preserving lean muscle mass.[3],[4],[5],[6]
The National Pork Board recently became a My Pyramid partner and looks forward to working with the Department of Agriculture to help educate Americans on choosing, preparing and eating healthy food options.
[1] Allen, L. How common is vitamin B-12 deficiency? American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2009. 89(suppl):693S–6S.
[2] Report of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010. D2-14.
[3] Paddon-Jones D, Westman E, Mattes RD, Wolfe RR, Astrup A, Westerterp-Plantenga M. Protein, weight management, and satiety. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2008;87(suppl):1558S-61S.
[4] Leidy H, et al. The influence of higher protein intake and greater eating frequency on appetite control in overweight and obese men. Obesity. Advance online publication 25 March 2010.
[5] Aubertin-Leheudre M, Adlercreutz H. Relationship between animal protein intake and muscle mass index in healthy women. British Journal of Nutrition 2009;102:1803-1810.
[6] Leidy H, et al. The Effects of Consuming Frequent, Higher Protein Meals on Appetite and Satiety During Weight Loss in Overweight/Obese Men. Obesity. Advance online publication 13 September 2010.