Eating well

The criticism levelled at Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide¹ in a recent CMAJ news piece² does not take into account the evidence that underpins the recommendations in the guide nor the extensive consultation process that preceded its writing. In particular, the comment that the food guide is “obesogenic”² is unwarranted.

The eating pattern recommended in the guide was developed using an extensive modelling process to ensure that it met nutrient standards and energy recommendations (dietary reference intakes) and was consistent with evidence linking food with the risk of developing certain chronic diseases. Health Canada consulted extensively with consumers, health professionals and food industry representatives and sought advice from 3 expert panels that included dietitians. It is noteworthy that feedback received from testing the guide with focus groups of consumers and health intermediaries (such as teachers, physicians, primary care nurses, home economists and fitness specialists who play a role in disseminating nutrition guidelines to consumers) did not support the inclusion of information about calories. Rather, the focus groups recommended strengthening the messages that provide practical advice on the types of foods to choose and those to limit and including messages on physical activity. The number of calories any one person needs can only be calculated after careful consideration, in consultation with a registered dietitian. Focusing on calorie counting alone can result in very unhealthy dietary practices.

Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide is a fundamental tool for health educators, but it cannot be expected to meet all educational needs. It is not designed to provide a weight-loss regimen; rather, it promotes a pattern of healthy eating and daily physical activity over a lifetime.