HEALTH

Carbohydrate and fat consumption, new WHO guidelines

The World Health Organisation has released new guidelines on the consumption of carbohydrates and fats, following the latest scientific evidence.

The new guidelines on the consumption of carbohydrates and fats focus on the prevention of unhealthy weight gain for both adults and children, but also on recommendations to reduce the risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.

The summary of the new guidelines revolves around limiting fat intake to 30 per cent of total energy intake and the careful choice of 'good' carbohydrates.

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New WHO guidelines
The World Health Organisation has released new guidelines on the consumption of carbohydrates and fats, following the latest scientific evidence. The new guidelines on the consumption of carbohydrates and fats focus on the prevention of unhealthy weight gain for both adults and children, but also on recommendations to reduce the risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.
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The focus on fat and carbohydrate consumption
The summary of the new guidelines revolves around limiting fat intake to 30% of total energy intake and carefully choosing 'good' carbohydrates. In the World Health Organisation report, a clear distinction is made for fats and it is recommended that no more than 10 per cent of total energy intake should come from saturated fatty acids and no more than 1 per cent from trans-fatty acids.
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Fats recommended and to be limited
The fats recommended by the WHO can be found in foods such as fish, olive oil, nuts. Fats to be limited, on the other hand, can be found in meat, dairy products, eggs, palm or coconut oil. Fats defined as trans-fats, on the other hand, derive from industrial processes.
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The consumption of carbohydrates
With regard to carbohydrates, on the other hand, the World Health Organisation recommends focusing on the consumption of whole grains, fruit, vegetables and pulses. White flours, sweets and industrial products, on the other hand, should be limited. It is recommended that adults consume at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables per day and 25 grams of dietary fibre.
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Tips for children
With regard to children, in particular, the World Health Organisation recommends the consumption of about 250 grams of fruit and vegetables per day for children between the ages of 2 and 5 years, 350 grams per day for the 6-9 year old age group, and at least 400 grams per day from the age of 10 onwards.
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