US Government Recommended Carbs

As we know, the government changes its stance on nutrition frequently - and is heavily influenced by lobbying groups. What is their stance on carbohydrates?

In 1989, the promoted values were:
Carbs - >50%
Protein - 10-15%
Fat - <30%

In 2002, this was changed to:
Carbs - 45-65% (under 25% of this from added sugars; 25g+ fiber)
Protein - 10-35%
Fat - 20-35% (low in trans-fatty / saturated fats)

It's important to realize that the government is NOT telling you to eat a lot of carbs. It is telling you to avoid sugars, and to eat a lot of FIBER - which for low carbers, is "not counted carbs". Fiber is critical for cleaning out both your digestive system and your circulatory system.

It's also important to remember that the government is trying to give a single number to apply to ALL humans - male, female, active, inactive, young, old. It cannot in any way be a valid perfect number for everyone. When you look at these numbers, it's important to realize that they are talking about PERCENTAGE ENERGY here - and that different energy sources pack a different "punch".


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