By: Ellen Glickman, Ph.D.

November 18, 2024

With Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. likely stepping into the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services, a pivotal question arises: Are we putting too much emphasis on processed foods while neglecting our health?
 
Kennedy brings nearly 30 years of experience in politics and environmental law to this important position. His focus on “Making America Healthy Again” suggests a shift toward prioritizing public health, which is encouraging news for anyone concerned about the nation's wellness landscape.
 
As an exercise physiologist with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges Americans face in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that 40.3% of the U.S. population is classified as obese—a staggering number with serious implications for individuals and communities.
 
Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 31% of people in the U.S. don’t meet the minimum standard of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. These statistics reflect the toll of an increasingly sedentary and nutrient-poor lifestyle. Acknowledging these challenges is a necessary first “step” in the right direction.
 
Kennedy’s support for research-driven, data-based solutions to tackle our health crisis holds promise. His focus on the impact of processed foods, chemicals, and additives—combined with an emphasis on public health and chronic disease prevention—could catalyze a much-needed transformation in our health outcomes. The idea of “cracking down” on these unhealthy aspects of our food environment aligns with the scientific findings many of us in health science have long supported.
 
Americans deserve access to the “right answers”—not just sound bites or short-term fixes. A holistic approach to health should be grounded in data and in peer-reviewed, credible research. Transformative public health policies can make a difference in our daily lives, especially if they focus on nutrition, movement, and preventative health practices.
 
The prospect of moving toward greater transparency and science-based policies for nutrition and health is exciting. Let’s hope that with the right support, we can steer the nation towards healthier living—both through individual choices and policy changes that promote well-being for all.