Experts and residents in Evanston and Chicago have raised concerns regarding the dietary guidelines released by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on January 7, 2026. A significant point of contention is the new recommendation for daily protein intake, which suggests Americans consume between 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. This is an increase from the previous Recommended Dietary Allowance of 0.8 grams per kilogram.
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Kaitlin Chakos, a registered dietitian at the University of Illinois Chicago, expressed confusion regarding the guidelines, particularly their emphasis on protein. She noted that the MyPlate model, which replaced the food pyramid in 2011, provides a clearer visual aid for balanced meals compared to the newly inverted pyramid presented by Kennedy.
Dr. Lisa Oldson, a clinical instructor at Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, criticized the elevated protein recommendations, stating that they have caused some patients at her weight-loss practice to feel pressured to consume more protein than necessary. She highlighted that some individuals are gaining weight in response to the new guidelines.
Daylan Dufelmeier, who leads nutrition education initiatives in the area, argued against prioritizing animal protein and emphasized the effectiveness of the plate-based model for nutritional education. Kate Cares, a registered dietitian at UIC, remarked that while she believes Kennedy's intentions are well-meaning, his lack of scientific training poses challenges.
While some experts, like Kirsten Straughan of UIC's nutrition science program, support parts of Kennedy's guidelines—such as limiting ultra-processed foods and added sugars—they contend that the inverted pyramid does not align with established nutritional science. Vikki Proctor, president of the Friends of Evanston Farmers Markets, noted distrust among community members towards the guidelines, partially due to their association with the Trump administration.
Residents such as Missy Thrasher-Lyon and Parker Eckert voiced their belief that the recommendations echo short-sighted perspectives focused on immediate results rather than long-term health implications.