Translating the DGA Into Real-World Cardiometabolic Care

Translating the DGA Into Real-World Cardiometabolic Care   Guest: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Host: Kyla M. Lara-Breitinger, M.D., M.H.S.   In this third episode roundtable, Dr. Lara Breitinger and Dr. Steve Kopecky examine what the DGAs get right—and where they fall short—for cardiovascular risk, from their emphasis on whole-food patterns to ongoing gaps around food processing, nutrient oversimplification, and sustainability messaging. They share how they translate the guidelines into real-world cardiometabolic care, including the evidence-based principles they use in clinic and when to individualize beyond national recommendations. Looking ahead, they explore the future of nutrition guidance—food as medicine, precision cardiometabolic care, and outcomes-driven recommendations—reminding listeners that the DGA is a starting point and to focus on "one bite at a time."   Topics Discussed: The mismatch between guidelines and patients What the DGA gets right—and wrong—for CV risk How you counsel patients today Where nutrition guidance needs to go next   Connect with Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Continuing Medical Education online at https://cveducation.mayo.edu or on Twitter @MayoClinicCV and @MayoCVservices. LinkedIn: Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Services Cardiovascular Education App: The Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular CME App is an innovative educational platform that features cardiology-focused continuing medical education wherever and whenever you need it. Use this app to access other free content and browse upcoming courses. Download it for free in Apple or Google stores today! No CME credit offered for this episode.   Podcast episode transcript found here.   Recorded on: 10-February-2026