US health panel recommends diet rich in plants, fruits and grains

A US panel has suggested that Americans should eat a diet rich in plants, fruits and grains as it is healthier and has a lower impact on the environment.

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee that meets once in every five years said that in comparison to the current diet followed by US citizens, which is generally high in meat, a diet comprising vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds was healthier promoting and more eco-friendly.

The report also stated in order to improve sustainability outcomes, no food group needs to be avoided completely.

Although the panel said that cholesterol was less of a concern, it said that added sugar should be limited to 200 calories a day.

Until now, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee had said that cholesterol intake should be limited to 300mg per day which equals to two eggs.

The report now states that there is no evidence to prove a link between heart disease and the amount of cholesterol consumed.

However, the report still suggested to consume less saturated fat.

The panel has also backed coffee drinking for the first time, saying that it has found strong evidence to support the belief that consuming three to five cups a day could be part of a healthy diet and help reduce risks of diabetes and heart disease.

The panel recommended that pregnant women consume should not more than two cups of coffee a day.