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 away from processed carbohydrates and added sugar towards increased consumption of fat and protein, particularly from animal sources. This initiative is expected to significantly influence American eating habits, but it is not the only factor at play.

Liz Dunn, author of the newsletter "Consumed," shared her predictions for how Americans will eat in 2026 on the podcast "Today, Explained." Dunn anticipates several trends, some aligning with MAHA's goals and others diverging significantly.

One key prediction is the continued dominance of protein in American diets. "What comes after peak protein will be more protein," Dunn stated, suggesting that the focus on protein consumption is unlikely to wane in the near future. This aligns with MAHA's emphasis on protein-rich foods.

However, Dunn also foresees trends that contradict MAHA's objectives. She believes that sugar-laden drinks will become even sweeter, a development that would likely be met with disapproval from Secretary Kennedy Jr.

The rise of personalized nutrition, driven by advancements in AI and data analysis, is also expected to play a significant role. AI algorithms can analyze an individual's genetic makeup, lifestyle, and dietary preferences to recommend tailored meal plans and supplement regimens. This trend is partially supported by MAHA, which encourages supplement use.

The MAHA movement, while influential, is just one piece of the puzzle. Technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and economic factors will all contribute to shaping the future of American eating habits. The extent to which MAHA's recommendations will be adopted remains to be seen, but its impact on the national conversation around food and health is undeniable.