Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently unveiled a new food pyramid as part of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, signaling a shift in dietary recommendations towards increased fat and protein consumption while discouraging processed carbohydrates and added sugars. This initiative, however, is just one factor influencing the evolving American diet, according to Liz Dunn, author of the newsletter "Consumed," who shared her predictions for how eating habits will change by 2026 on the podcast "Today, Explained."

Dunn anticipates that protein consumption will continue to rise, even after reaching what some might consider "peak protein." This prediction aligns with the MAHA movement's emphasis on protein-rich diets, particularly those featuring animal products. The podcast also explored other potential shifts, some of which contradict the MAHA guidelines.

While the MAHA initiative promotes supplements, Dunn suggests that sugar-laden drinks will become even more prevalent. This divergence highlights the complex interplay of factors shaping American eating habits, where government recommendations coexist with consumer preferences and industry trends.

The MAHA movement aims to address public health concerns by promoting dietary changes. The inverted food pyramid reflects a departure from previous guidelines that emphasized carbohydrates as the primary source of energy. The focus on fat and protein is intended to combat obesity and related health issues.

Dunn's predictions offer a broader perspective, acknowledging that consumer choices are influenced by a variety of factors beyond government recommendations. The availability of convenient and affordable options, such as sugary drinks, plays a significant role in shaping dietary patterns.

The future of American eating habits remains uncertain, with the MAHA movement and evolving consumer preferences pulling in different directions. The interplay between these forces will determine the extent to which Americans adopt healthier eating habits in the years to come. The full conversation with Liz Dunn can be found on "Today, Explained," available on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, and Spotify.