Vanity Fair magazine claims America’s growing interest in high-protein diets is linked to the MAGA movement and traditional masculinity, sparking heated debate over whether what’s on your plate reveals your politics.
At a Glance
- Vanity Fair article suggests high-protein diets are connected to the MAGA movement and “manosphere” culture
- The publication links Donald Trump, Joe Rogan, and Theo Von to promoting protein-centric eating habits tied to masculine stereotypes
- Critics like Mary Katharine Ham argue protein consumption is beneficial for everyone regardless of gender or politics
- Fox News contributor Ham states the left is unnecessarily surrendering the narrative on protein and weightlifting to conservatives
- Dr. Andrew Huberman advocates focusing on health benefits of quality protein intake rather than political associations
Protein Politics: How Did Meat Become MAGA?
A recent Vanity Fair article has ignited controversy by connecting America’s growing interest in protein-rich diets to conservative politics and the MAGA movement. The piece characterizes the nation’s focus on protein as a “lust for protein” primarily driven by men and associates it with masculinity and right-leaning values. According to the magazine, this dietary trend aligns with the principles of the “manosphere,” an online community promoting traditional masculinity and, according to critics, anti-feminist viewpoints that often intersect with conservative values.
The article specifically mentions former President Donald Trump’s influence, portraying him as a figurehead who embodies masculine stereotypes that appeal to protein enthusiasts. It also references popular podcasters Joe Rogan and Theo Von, highlighting their roles in both promoting Trump and discussing protein-heavy diets. Internist Pieter Cohen is quoted in the piece, noting an increased interest in protein consumption among men specifically, which the article frames as part of a broader cultural and political movement rather than simply a health trend.
Is the desire to eat a high-protein diet and the MAGA movement correlated? According to a report from Vanity Fair, it is.
The May 1 article titled "Why Are Americans So Obsessed With Protein? "Blame MAGA," attempts to compare Americans eating a diet aimed at promoting muscle…
— News News News (@NewsNew97351204) May 10, 2025
Critics Challenge the Political Protein Connection
The Vanity Fair article has drawn significant criticism from those who see it as an unnecessary politicization of nutrition. Fox News contributor Mary Katharine Ham has been particularly vocal in challenging the magazine’s premise, arguing that protein consumption is beneficial for everyone regardless of gender or political affiliation. Ham suggests that the article represents a troubling tendency to assign political motivations to basic health and lifestyle choices that should remain outside the partisan battlefield.
“If wanting a steak and prominent delts (deltoid muscles) is wrong, I don’t want to be right,” said Mary Katharine Ham. “It is not gendered, it is just good for you.”
Ham further argues that the left is unnecessarily ceding the narrative on protein consumption and weightlifting to the right, creating an artificial divide where none should exist. She points out that women are increasingly embracing high-protein diets and strength training for their proven health benefits, contradicting the article’s implication that protein consciousness is primarily a male-dominated phenomenon tied to right-wing politics. Many nutritionists support this view, emphasizing that protein requirements are based on individual factors like activity level and body composition rather than gender or political identity.
The Science Versus Political Narratives
Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman, known for his science-based approach to health, has advocated for a balanced perspective on protein consumption that focuses on quality and appropriate intake rather than political considerations. The Vanity Fair article also references a study suggesting potential links between protein supplements and anabolic steroid use, though critics argue this connection feeds into an unfair characterization of protein enthusiasts as extreme or potentially engaging in risky behaviors.
“I don’t have a good sense on what’s driving that right now, other than if it’s just the usual manosphere—or manomania, here in the United States,” said Pieter Cohen. “everyone’s letting their testosterone out these days.”
Health experts continue to recommend appropriate protein intake as part of a balanced diet for people of all political persuasions. The American Heart Association and other major health organizations maintain that moderate protein consumption supports muscle maintenance, immune function, and overall health. The debate around the Vanity Fair article ultimately raises questions about the growing tendency to view everyday choices—from diet to exercise—through a partisan lens, potentially creating unnecessary divisions where shared health interests might otherwise build common ground.
