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American Heart Association urges people to favor plant-based proteins, replace full fat dairy
The guidance also recommended children can and should begin following a heart-healthy dietary pattern starting at 1 year of age.
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Reuters - Tue, 31, Mar 2026
- 18:00 EDT
- 11
FILE PHOTO: Ingredients for plant-based hamburgers, including a protein gel, are on display in this illustration in Redwood City, California, U.S. October 6, 2016. / REUTERS/Beck Diefenbach/File Photo
The American Heart Association's new nutrition guidance, released on March 31, emphasized a dietary pattern rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains, prioritizing plant-based protein over meat.
It also suggested limiting the use of sugar, salt and ultra-processed foods and replacing full fat dairy with non-fat and low-fat dairy.
U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year announced a new slate of dietary guidelines that recommended Americans eat more protein from both animal and plant sources, and encouraged the consumption of full-fat dairy.
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In contrast to the federal government's recommendation of use of beef tallow and consumption of red meat, the AHA pushed for plant-based proteins such as legumes, nuts and seeds, choosing low-fat or fat-free dairy, and, when consuming red meat, selecting lean cuts, avoiding processed forms and keeping portions small.
The Trump administration and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s push to "Make America Healthy Again" has focused on the removal of synthetic dyes, other chemical ingredients, ultraprocessed foods, consumption of less sugar and seed oils.
The AHA also suggested Americans choose sources of unsaturated fats, avoid ultraprocessed foods, and minimize intake of added sugars in beverages and foods.
The organization recommended Americans to prepare foods with minimal or no salt, and limit the intake of alcohol.
The guidance also recommended children can and should begin following a heart-healthy dietary pattern starting at 1 year of age.
The American Heart Association's guidance is aligned with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's dietary guidelines on major issues, a spokesperson from the FDA said, adding they look forward to working collaboratively with AHA.
The AHA, which is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, releases dietary guidance about every five years to promote cardiovascular health.
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