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DGA experts recommend nutrient intakes for babies

The scientific report from nutrition experts for the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans has, for the first time, made recommendations for babies under the age of two. Shalene McNeill, registered dietitian with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association tells Brownfield Ag News the experts have made recommendations in all food groups, “They’re making recommendations for fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, dairy. The whole diet for a baby from birth to 24 months of age.” Babies typically begin eating solid foods around four to six months old, in addition to breast milk and/or formula.

McNeill says it’s long overdue, “We know, for example, that some of the negative effects of iron deficiency – if a baby is iron deficient, it can have cognitive effects. It can effect their ability to learn later in life.”

Beef is a rich source of iron and other nutrients including zinc. The USDA and HHS are taking public comments on the report through August 14^th before publishing the new federal dietary guidelines toward the end of this year.