New in This Version

• Updated to reflect the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025.  
  • The first set of these guidelines to be organized by healthy dietary patterns by life stage, from birth through older adulthood. For the first time, there are chapters devoted to each life stage, including chapters on infants and toddlers and women who are pregnant or lactating.
  • Emphasizes the importance of choosing nutrient-dense foods and beverages in place of less healthy choices at every life stage, and it is never too early or too late to improve food and beverage choices to build a healthy dietary pattern.
• Reflects the recent updates to Versions 3.0 and 3.1
  • Information about COVID-19 and how to prevent or slow its transmission, how to minimize risk of contracting the infection, and the increased risk of adverse outcomes for individuals who are older, smoke, or have underlying health conditions such as high-blood pressure, COPD, obesity, diabetes, and immunodeficiency. Version 3.1 also discusses the novel coronavirus’ impact on stress, well-being, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health, and the environment.
  • Enhanced recommendations for use of technology in relation to health.
  • Updated information on smoking, vaping, alcohol, drugs, and the opioid epidemic.
  • Included more information regarding personal safety, with new information on gun violence, gender discrimination, and sexual harassment.
  • New information on stress and sleep.
  • Added information on emerging cancer treatments, such as immunotherapy.
  • Incorporated current data on impacts of climate change and developments in national and international efforts to control carbon emissions.