(Washington, D.C., January 9, 2026)

Dr. Ben Carson, USDA National Advisor for Nutrition, Health, and Housing, and Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), have published an opinion piece in Newsweek discussing the Trump Administration’s efforts to Make America Healthy Again through the revision of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we are restoring common sense, scientific integrity, and accountability to federal food and health policy,” stated Dr. Carson and Dr. Oz. “America faces a chronic health crisis, but the Trump administration is laying the groundwork for revitalization—drawing from the real, nutritious food produced by our farmers and ranchers.”

Revising Dietary Guidelines for Healthier Americans

The authors emphasize the importance of these new guidelines, stating, “By amending the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, President Trump is prioritizing the well-being of Americans where it should have been all along.” They argue that it is time to reclaim the food pyramid by focusing on educating and nourishing the American populace.

America’s Health Crisis

Significant concerns arise from the CDC’s statistics indicating that over 40% of the approximately 73 million children in the United States (ages 0-17) have at least one chronic health condition. Alarmingly, three-quarters of these children are deemed ineligible for military service due to their health issues.

The authors assert, “These numbers are unacceptable. Poor health endangers the ability of citizens to live fulfilling lives, particularly when harmful dietary habits are developed from a young age.”

The Focus on Whole Foods

According to Dr. Carson and Dr. Oz, “To Make America Healthy Again, we must return to the basics of nutrition.” They argue that the modern American diet, heavily skewed towards processed foods, has led to a significant decrease in the intake of essential nutrients necessary for optimal health.

“Research consistently shows that vital micronutrients—such as calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamin D—found in fruits and vegetables, are essential for children’s health,” they state. “Diets rich in wholesome foods can lead to lower rates of chronic diseases.”

Supporting Local Farmers

The article also highlights the role of American farmers and ranchers in addressing the national health crisis. The authors believe that local agricultural production can provide the necessary resources for a healthier American diet. Consequently, the Trump administration is striving to strengthen small local and regional farms, emphasizing the connection between nutritious food and health outcomes.

Strategic Initiatives and Future Goals

Over the past year, the administration has actively worked with rural America to revitalize small farms and stabilize agricultural practices. Initiatives like the USDA Plan for American Ranchers and Consumers aim to enhance cattle production by reducing costs for ranchers, while the new Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program plans to invest $700 million in soil health and water retention strategies.

Through the revised Dietary Guidelines, the administration seeks to link farmers with school lunch programs and child nutrition initiatives, potentially reducing healthcare costs and increasing national productivity.

Conclusion

Dr. Carson and Dr. Oz conclude by asserting, “America’s future depends on what we grow, what we serve, and what we choose to eat. This is the foundation that will Make America Healthy Again.”

Dr. Ben Carson is the USDA National Adviser for Nutrition, Health, and Housing and Dr. Mehmet Oz is the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.