MAHA ~ Missing the Forest for the Trees

The M.A.H.A. (Make America Healthy Again) movement has brought health into the spotlight like never before. I’m not mad at them for it. For the first time in decades, people are paying attention to health and those of us who have been shouting it from the mountain tops are just relieved people are listening. But despite the positive shift, much of the movement needs focus.

One major issue? The obsession with things like food dyes. While it’s great to be mindful of what we consume, the reality is that there is virtually no direct evidence that red dye causes health problems in humans at normal consumption levels (Layne Norton). Yet, many people who once distrusted government agencies are now treating the FDA’s word as absolute truth, when in reality, the answer—like most things—lies somewhere in between.

America’s health crisis isn’t about food dyes, seed oils, or whether your snack is organic. The real issue? Overconsumption and inactivity. Junk food without red dye is still junk food. And no amount of “clean eating” will fix a sedentary lifestyle.

I once had a client proudly tell me she ate “really healthy” because all of her food came from Whole Foods. But organic ice cream is still loaded with fat and sugar—nutrient quality doesn’t cancel out overconsumption. Another client swore that Cheerios were great for heart health because the box said so. The truth? It’s still processed junk marketed as a health food.

Health isn’t about trendy buzzwords or fear-mongering over ingredients. The key to long-term success is calories in vs. calories out, combined with consistent movement. Instead of hyper-focusing on minor details, shift your energy toward:

✅ Eating mostly whole, nutrient-dense foods (Eat meat & vegetables, nuts & seeds, some fruit, little starch)

✅ Prioritizing protein, fiber, and hydration

✅ Managing portion sizes—yes, even “healthy” foods

✅ Moving your body daily—strength training, walking, and cardio

Health doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require personal responsibility. Small, sustainable habits will always beat quick fixes and fear-based trends. Own your health, make informed choices, and focus on what truly matters.