3639: Is the New Food Pyramid Another Scam?

January 22, 2026

3639: Is the New Food Pyramid Another Scam?

January 22, 2026

TT: Is the New Food Pyramid Another Scam?

Have you seen the newly released 2026 USDA Dietary Guidelines and wondered if this is an improvement over the previous food pyramid?

On today’s episode, I break down what the updated food pyramid gets right, where it falls short, and why even well-intentioned guidelines can still be misleading if taken at face value.

We’ll explore how the new recommendations improve upon past versions by emphasizing whole, minimally processed foods and more realistic protein needs, while also highlighting ongoing issues with confusing visuals, contradictory messaging around fats and dairy, and an underemphasis on fruits, vegetables, and fiber.

I’ll also explain why no government guideline can replace personalized nutrition, and how using individual data, lifestyle context, and metabolic health markers is essential for creating sustainable results.

So join me for today’s Cabral Concept 3639 to learn how to interpret the 2026 food pyramid wisely and apply it in a way that truly supports your health.

Enjoy the show, and as always, let me know your thoughts!

Show Highlights & Big Takeaways

1. A Step Forward, But Not Perfect: The shift toward whole foods and realistic protein needs is positive, but unclear visuals and contradictory guidance can still mislead the average person.

2. Protein Recommendations are Reasonable: The suggested protein range supports health and longevity without pushing extreme intake levels, especially for non–highly active individuals.

3. More Emphasis on Fruits, Vegetables, Fiber, and Fat: The guidelines fall short on fiber intake, overemphasize dairy for many adults, and contradict themselves on saturated fat.