MAHA Agenda Twist: Diabetics Told to Cook Their Way to Health by Trump’s Ex-FDA Boss

In a surprising twist to America’s public health conversation, Trump’s former FDA chief, Dr. Marty Makary, made headlines by suggesting that cooking classes, not insulin, might be the missing prescription for diabetes. His comment came under the umbrella of the controversial “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda — a wellness-first initiative being pushed by Trump-aligned health officials, including RFK Jr.

While it sounds like a joke from a late-night show, Makary’s words were no slip of the tongue. He said, “Maybe we need to treat more diabetes with cooking classes, not just throwing insulin at people.” And just like that, the internet lit up.

But before we grab our spatulas, let’s unpack what this really means for millions of Americans living with diabetes, what the science says, and where this MAHA movement might be steering U.S. healthcare next.

MAHA Agenda Twist

Dr. Marty Makary’s “cook your way out of diabetes” comment may have made headlines, but the real recipe for managing diabetes is balanced care: evidence-based medicine, informed nutrition, and support systems that actually work for real people.

The MAHA agenda may have good intentions — fighting Big Pharma, promoting clean eating — but it oversimplifies complex conditions like diabetes. And in doing so, it risks misleading millions. So, before we start tossing out our insulin for aprons, let’s stick to science, common sense, and real-world experience.

What Exactly Did Trump’s Ex-FDA Chief Say?

In an interview on Fox News, Dr. Marty Makary delivered what sounded like a home economics pitch from the 1950s: “We should be treating diabetes with cooking classes, not just insulin.” He positioned this as part of a national strategy to move away from “pill-popping” and towards lifestyle interventions — a core principle of the MAHA agenda.

Makary wasn’t speaking off the cuff. His remarks were part of a broader commission report that included recommendations to shift public health focus toward environmental toxins, ultra-processed foods, and preventive care. The MAHA agenda, which is quietly gaining traction in conservative circles, paints a future where personal responsibility and natural healing trump pharmaceuticals.

Why Doctors and Diabetics Are Calling This Dangerous

Diabetes isn’t a one-size-fits-all disease.

While it’s true that Type 2 diabetes is often linked to diet and lifestyle, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that requires lifelong insulin therapy. Suggesting that a cooking class can replace insulin isn’t just misleading — it’s potentially deadly.

Dr. Kasia Lipska, an endocrinologist at Yale School of Medicine, told The Guardian:

“It’s not only wrong—it’s irresponsible. You’re putting vulnerable people at risk when you downplay the role of insulin in diabetes care.”

Moreover, millions of Americans with Type 2 diabetes already struggle to access proper nutrition, education, and healthcare. The idea that a cooking class alone can solve their issues grossly underestimates the economic and social factors tied to this disease.

The MAHA Agenda: What Is It Really About?

Launched as a “wellness counterpoint” to Big Pharma, the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) plan champions natural, food-based healing, detoxification, and environmental awareness. It’s got the fingerprints of RFK Jr., Casey Means (a wellness influencer and surgeon general nominee), and now Makary all over it.

The core ideas?

• Shift focus from reactive medicine (pills, shots) to preventive care.
• Reduce dependency on pharmaceutical companies.
• Push back against processed foods, artificial additives, and environmental toxins.

Now, those ideas sound pretty smart in theory — no one’s against healthy eating. But the MAHA movement is being criticized for cherry-picking science and promoting pseudoscience at times.

What the Research Actually Says About Cooking and Diabetes

Let’s cut through the noise. Here’s what peer-reviewed studies and top health organizations say:

• Lifestyle changes do matter: According to the CDC, diet and exercise can delay or even prevent Type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals. CDC Diabetes Prevention Program
• But meds are often necessary: The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends medication, including insulin, for many patients — especially those with long-standing or poorly controlled diabetes.
• Cooking classes help — but don’t replace meds: A 2018 study in Diabetes Spectrum found that diabetes self-management programs (which include meal prep) improved glucose control — but only when combined with proper medication.

In short: Cooking is great. It’s not a cure.

Real-Life Barriers: It’s Not Just About Recipes

Let’s not forget — most Americans don’t have the time or resources to take cooking classes, especially those juggling multiple jobs, caregiving, or living in food deserts (areas with limited access to fresh food).

• 1 in 7 Americans face food insecurity
• Over 30 million Americans live in food deserts

For many, a cooking class isn’t accessible, let alone practical. Without addressing these systemic challenges, the MAHA plan risks being just another out-of-touch wellness pitch.

So, What Should Diabetics Actually Do?

Here’s a practical, medically-sound path — no fluff:

1. Get Diagnosed Properly

Know if you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The treatment plans are very different.

2. Follow Medical Guidance

If your doctor prescribes insulin, take it. No kitchen hack can replace it.

3. Learn About Nutrition

Enroll in a certified diabetes education program, often available via hospitals or local health departments.

4. Ask About Cooking Classes

Some nonprofit orgs and hospitals offer free or low-cost cooking sessions tailored for diabetics. These are supplements, not substitutes.

5. Use Free Resources

• ADA Nutrition Hub
• CDC Diabetes Toolkit
• MyPlate.gov

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is cooking a replacement for insulin?

No. Especially for Type 1 diabetics, insulin is essential. Cooking can support better health, but it’s not a standalone solution.

Q2: What is the MAHA agenda?

It’s a wellness-centered movement backed by conservative health leaders, including Trump allies. It focuses on natural healing, environmental detox, and personal responsibility in health.

Q3: Who is Dr. Marty Makary?

A former Trump-appointed FDA chief and Johns Hopkins surgeon, known for outspoken views on public health reform.

Q4: Should I join a cooking class if I have diabetes?

Sure — as long as you also follow your doctor’s guidance. Look for certified programs from reputable sources, not just online influencers.

Q5: Are there free diabetic-friendly recipes online?

Yes! Check out:

• ADA Recipes
• CDC Meal Plans