AUGUST 18, 2020
UNLOCKED FOR THE PUBLIC
CRN emphasizes importance of supplementation for nutrients of public health concern, key life stages following Dietary Guidelines report
The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans should highlight special nutrient needs at each life stage and include strategies to meet nutrient intake targets that incorporate dietary supplements, CRN noted in written comments submitted to USDA and HHS last week following the release of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) Scientific Report.
While delivering oral comments on behalf of the association at a recent virtual USDA-HHS meeting, Haiuyen Nguyen reiterated the vital role of supplements in helping to fill nutrient gaps, especially when USDA Food Patterns are unable to provide recommended intakes of underconsumed nutrients, particularly those of public health concern such as vitamin D, calcium, dietary fiber and potassium.
In addition, CRN encouraged USDA and HHS to ensure the guidelines reinforce current expert recommendations regarding nutrient supplementation during pregnancy, lactation, and birth to 24 months, as these life stages are critical periods of growth and development.
CRN has engaged in the DGAC's process from the outset, submitting comments and speaking publicly at a July 2019 meeting, attending the webcast March meeting, and submitting additional comments in June. CRN will continue to diligently monitor the publication of the final 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, expected later this year. Contact Haiuyen Nguyen with questions.
Listen to CRN's Haiuyen Nguyen deliver oral comments to USDA and HHS on the DGAC report.
ICYMI:
New Dietary Guidelines Report Recognizes Role of Dietary Supplements During Pregnancy and Lactation, CRN press release
Dietary guidelines report carves out role for dietary supplementation, especially in maternal nutrition, NutraIngredients-USA
CRN Commends DGAC for Recognizing the Role of Dietary Supplements, Nutraceuticals World
New dietary guidelines report recognizes role of dietary supplements during pregnancy, Chain Drug Review
“As USDA and HHS focus on developing dietary guidance to promote health and prevent chronic disease, the Departments should also highlight special nutrient concerns and strategies to mitigate them including appropriate use of dietary supplements.”
—Haiuyen Nguyen, CRN