The US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005, which represent the federal government’s science-based advice to promote health and reduce risk of chronic diseases through nutrition and physical activity. Eating a healthy balance of nutritious foods continues as a central point in the Dietary Guidelines, but the sixth edition places much stronger emphasis on reducing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity. In a major departure from prior reports, DHHS and USDA developed the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 report for health education specialists such as doctors and nutritionists, as well as a consumer-oriented brochure, Finding Your Way to a Healthier You-based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 message with respect to alcoholic beverages continuous to emphasize moderation for those who choose to drink and cautions about excessive consumption, outlining circumstances and groups of individuals who should not drink. One of the key alcohol recommendations leads with the wording,” Those who choose to drink alcoholic beverages should do so sensibly and in moderation-defined as the consumption of up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men….” The 2005 report is more technical and in-depth and includes an expanded discussion on moderation, emphasizing in the lead that “The consumption of alcohol can have beneficial or harmful effects depending on the amount consumed, age and other characteristics of the person consuming the alcohol, and specifics of the situation.” In keeping with the emphasis found throughout the report, the discussions on alcohol also elaborate on the calorie content.

The consumer brochure, Finding Your Way to a Healthier You, provides the same above definition of moderation under the “About Alcohol” section but does not acknowledge any potential lifestyle benefits, emphasizing in the lead, “ If you choose to drink alcohol , do so in moderation”, and cautions that” Generally, anything more than moderate drinking can be harmful to your health. And some people or people in certain situations shouldn’t drink at all.” The consumer message also emphasizes that “alcoholic beverages have calories but are low in nutritional value” and suggests to consumers to consult with their doctor or healthcare provider on any questions or concerns. The pictures surrounding both documents show a table with glasses and a bottle and plates, underscoring the adjunct to food and meals. However, in contrast to the prior guidelines, there is no verbal message of drinking wine, beer, and spirits preferably with meals.

This joint project of the Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture is the latest of the five-year reviews required by federal law. In addition to these two new policy documents USDA's upcoming Food Guidance System also will serve as a tool to educate consumers on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The Food Guidance System, currently called the Food Guide Pyramid, is undergoing revision and will be released in the spring of 2005 as a major consumer education tool.