The 2005 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee indicated most Americans consume too many foods that are high in calories but low in nutrients. To address this concern, the new Guidelines reinforce a long-standing and widely accepted cornerstone of nutrition nutrient density, or enjoying more foods that are naturally rich in nutrients first and selecting less nutrient-rich options as caloric requirements and physical activity levels allow.

The Naturally Nutrient Rich Coalition comprised of 13 food commodity groups supports the overall theme of the new guidelines, including the emphasis on selecting a variety of nutrient-rich foods within and among all five food groups to achieve optimum health. Nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E, zinc, calcium, complex carbohydrates, potassium, iron, fiber, B-vitamins and protein are needed at all ages to promote healthy growth, fuel activity and prevent chronic diseases. And, as people watch calories to reduce their waistlines, it's critical to make each calorie count more by selecting foods with more essential nutrients in fewer calories.

Research indicates consumers are more motivated by positive, realistic messages, and the Coalition offers simple "how to" advice to help people eat more nutrient-rich foods for healthier, more active lifestyles.