The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a troubling reality: The state of health in America is in crisis. A growing chorus of voices, including biohackers and health advocates, is urging Americans to take personal responsibility for their well-being. With the rise of chronic illnesses, declining physical fitness, and alarming statistics about childhood health, these advocates are calling for a return to basic, natural lifestyle changes to restore the nation’s vitality.
One of the most startling revelations comes from a Pentagon study showing that 77% of young Americans are unfit for military service due to issues like obesity, drug use, and mental health problems. This statistic underscores a broader societal problem: the erosion of physical fitness and discipline among younger generations. For conservatives, this is not just a health issue but a national security concern. A strong and capable military is essential for safeguarding freedom, and the inability to recruit fit individuals threatens the foundation of America’s defense.
The broader health crisis extends to children, with conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease on the rise. Linked to poor diets and food insecurity, this disease now affects millions of children, disproportionately impacting minority communities. Conservatives have long championed self-reliance and personal responsibility, and this crisis highlights the need for parents to prioritize healthy eating habits and reject the convenience culture that promotes ultraprocessed foods. The biohacker movement’s emphasis on natural oils like coconut and olive oil over heavily processed alternatives aligns with these values, advocating for informed consumer choices over government mandates.
Former President Donald Trump’s recent establishment of the “Make America Healthy Again Commission,” chaired by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., marks a significant step in addressing these challenges. This bipartisan initiative focuses on childhood chronic diseases and aims to reform food policies while promoting transparency in health research. Conservatives can appreciate this approach as it seeks to empower individuals rather than expand government bureaucracy. By working with farmers to ensure healthier food supplies and encouraging preventative care, this commission embodies a free-market solution to public health.
The biohacker movement also emphasizes practical lifestyle changes that resonate with conservative principles of self-determination. Simple habits like prioritizing sleep, walking after meals, and reducing screen time are accessible and cost-effective ways to improve health. These measures reflect a rejection of the dependency on expensive healthcare systems or pharmaceutical interventions, advocating instead for personal accountability and proactive wellness.
Ultimately, the path forward requires a cultural shift toward valuing health as a cornerstone of American strength. Conservatives have long argued that strong families build strong nations and that fostering healthier habits within households can reverse troubling trends. By embracing natural solutions and rejecting harmful modern conveniences, Americans can reclaim their health—and with it, their independence and resilience as a people.