Jillian Michaels on the Fight Against Processed Foods and America’s Chronic Disease Crisis: 'We Need a Systemic Change

Jillian Michaels has long been a trusted voice in fitness and nutrition, but her latest battle is bigger than weight loss. With millions of Americans facing chronic diseases and obesity, Michaels is calling out the toxic ingredients in our food and urging for systemic change. The fitness guru, known for her work on The Biggest Loser, wants more than just personal accountability—she wants to "get the poison out of our food." With rising health issues tied to processed foods and chemicals, Michaels is on a mission to change the food industry and help Americans reclaim their health.

The Hidden Poisons in Our Food: Jillian’s Mission

During an appearance on CNBC’s Power Lunch, Michaels voiced a growing concern: the harmful chemicals and additives in everyday foods are silently contributing to America's health crisis. “It’s absurd,” she said. “Heavy metals, microplastics, food colorings, glyphosate—they're everywhere.”

Michaels believes these toxic ingredients are a root cause of rising chronic diseases and obesity. While many people think of unhealthy eating as a personal choice, she argues that the larger problem lies with the food system itself. “We can take all the agency in the world, but until there is a systemic change, it’s going to be virtually impossible for Americans to get healthier. We need help.”

Her solution? Educating people about their food choices and advocating for widespread changes in food production. Michaels emphasizes the importance of taking small steps, such as eliminating soda, but also stresses that the onus shouldn’t solely fall on individuals.

Weight-Loss Drugs: A Temporary Fix?

The popularity of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy has skyrocketed in recent years, with combined sales of $21.1 billion in 2023. While these medications offer a quick solution for obesity and chronic illnesses, Michaels warns that they come with dangerous side effects.

"These drugs are not cheap," she said, explaining that they can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a month. Beyond the financial strain, they also plateau and come with a laundry list of side effects, from nausea and vomiting to pancreatitis and even the risk of thyroid cancer.

Instead of turning to medication, Michaels advocates addressing the root cause—our toxic food system. “You can be thin and still get cancer, still get type 2 diabetes,” she said during an interview with Fox and Friends. “We need to focus on what’s really causing these diseases, and that’s what’s in our food.”

Chronic Disease: An American Epidemic

According to the CDC, about 6 in 10 Americans live with at least one chronic disease, such as heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. These diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, as well as a major contributor to the country’s $4.3 trillion annual healthcare bill.

Michaels has a unique perspective on this crisis. During a recent Senate roundtable hosted by Sen. Ron Johnson, she recounted her own struggles with obesity as a child. Despite the temptation to rely on medication, Michaels chose to join a martial arts studio, where she learned discipline and began her lifelong dedication to fitness.

Throughout her 30-year career, Michaels has helped countless people transform their health. However, she admits that even with her efforts, many have been lost to chronic diseases—victims of a food system that’s setting people up for failure. “Most Americans are too financially strained, psychologically drained, and physically addicted to break free without a systemic intervention,” she said during her testimony.

A Call for Heroes and Systemic Change

Michaels is clear: personal responsibility is only part of the solution. The food industry must be held accountable for the chemicals and additives that are fueling the obesity and chronic disease epidemic. “We are in the middle of an extinction-level event,” she said during her testimony, emphasizing the need for action on a national level.

The fitness expert likened the crisis to a battle between good and evil, where the well-being of Americans is at stake. Her Senate testimony wasn’t just a call for reform—it was a call for heroes. "The American people need help. They need heroes.”

Michaels’ Personal Journey: From Obesity to Fitness Icon

Jillian Michaels' passion for health and fitness is deeply personal. Born in Los Angeles in 1974, she was clinically obese by the age of 13. Her mother’s decision to enroll her in martial arts classes was the turning point that helped her gain control of her weight. From there, Michaels built a career in fitness, opening her gym in Beverly Hills and becoming a household name after her role as a trainer on NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

Over the years, she’s authored eight New York Times bestsellers and hosts a podcast, Keeping it Real: Conversations with Jillian Michaels, where she continues to advocate for healthier living. But now, her fight is bigger than just helping people lose weight—she’s focused on saving lives by addressing the systemic problems that contribute to chronic disease.

The Path Forward: A Healthier America

Michaels isn’t just speaking out for the sake of it—she’s offering solutions. Her advice to Americans is simple but impactful: make small changes in your diet, be aware of what’s in your food, and avoid heavily processed foods and drinks. She emphasizes the importance of education and awareness, but ultimately believes that change must happen on a larger scale.

“We can’t keep going like this,” Michaels said. The hope is that by shining a spotlight on these issues, we can ignite a movement toward healthier living—one that doesn't just rely on individuals but demands accountability from the food industry.

Jillian Michaels’ fight against America’s chronic disease crisis goes beyond fitness tips and diets—it’s a call for systemic change. As processed foods and harmful chemicals continue to dominate our food supply, the health of millions of Americans is at risk. Michaels' message is clear: it's time to get the poison out of our food, hold the industry accountable, and empower individuals to take back their health.