February 2026
The U.S Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture unveiled the new food pyramid on January 7, 2026, as part of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2026.
The pyramid we are all accustomed to seeing has been inverted to focus on whole, nutrient dense foods, while limiting or avoiding ultra processed and processed foods which often contain added sugars, dyes, preservatives and artificial ingredients which may contribute to inflammation and disease.
Whole grains have moved to the bottom of the pyramid, while proteins, full fat dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and nuts are found at the top. Protein consumption is prioritized, full fat dairy consumption and healthy fats are encouraged in the diet (meats, eggs, seeds, olives, nuts, avocados), along with whole food fruits and vegetables. The “food is medicine” philosophy leads this change, although it is not without controversy.
What does this mean for you?
While we all need protein, fats, and carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and hydration for proper body function and overall good health, we each have unique nutritional needs based on age, stage of development, activity level, food allergies or intolerances, lifestyle practices, genetics, environment. It is important to eat a variety of whole foods from all of the food groups to ensure our bodies are being nourished.
Dietary changes should be incremental and slow to allow your body to adapt. Keeping a food diary is always a good idea to note how you react to new foods or changes in your normal dietary pattern.
This newly revealed food pyramid provides the opportunity to examine what you are eating and how the foods you are choosing are serving your nutritional goals and overall health.
Denise Andreas, dandreas@swcaa.org
https://www.fns.usda.gov/newsroom/usda-0003.26
https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/dga-fact-sheet.pdf