WHO updates dietary guidelines with stricter fibre and fat targets for all ages

The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its dietary guidelines with clearer advice on fats, fibre and carbohydrates. The recommendations cover adults and children aged two and older, focusing on healthier food choices. Key changes include higher fibre targets for children and stricter limits on unhealthy fats. For adults, the WHO advises at least 25 grams of dietary fibre each day. Children aged two and above should now aim for 15 grams daily—a significant increase from earlier guidance. The organisation also recommends that 40 to 70% of total calories come from carbohydrates, ideally from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and seeds.

Fats are another focus. Unsaturated fats from plant oils, fish and nuts should take priority, while saturated fats must not exceed 10% of daily calories. Trans fats are limited to less than 1% of total energy intake. The guidelines also maintain the existing advice for adults to consume at least 400 grams of fruits and vegetables per day, which can be met through combinations like 1 cup of leafy greens or 1/2 cup of other vegetables. The WHO's sugar recommendations for children remain unchanged, but the new guidelines emphasise a low-fat diet for adults. No specific updates were made to previous fibre advice for children under two.

The updated WHO guidelines set clearer targets for fibre, fats and carbohydrates. Children now have higher fibre recommendations, while adults face stricter limits on unhealthy fats. The advice aims to improve long-term health through better dietary habits.