Why Are the Amish So Healthy?
Have you ever asked yourself why modern Americans are so sick, and what can we do differently?
Recently we came across an article that dove into two really interesting topics: the new MAHA report on regulating pharmaceutical ads, and the health outcomes of the Amish. Both left us thinking about how environment and lifestyle shape health far more than genetics or quick fixes.
The MAHA Report & Big Pharma Ads
For nearly 30 years, the U.S. has been running a public health experiment unlike almost any other country in the world: direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising. You know the commercials, the happy couples running through fields while a voice quickly lists side effects like “nausea, dizziness… thoughts of suicide.”
The numbers are staggering. Since the FDA relaxed ad rules in the late 90s, drug companies have spent billions convincing us we need prescriptions for every symptom. Today, only the U.S. and New Zealand allow these ads. Meanwhile, our health outcomes keep declining. More prescriptions, higher spending, but sicker people.
The new MAHA report is finally pushing for stronger disclaimers and limits. It’s a step in the right direction, because our health shouldn’t be dictated by who buys the most ad space during Sunday Night Football.
The Amish Example
Now, let’s look at a population living right here in America with a completely different story: the Amish. Their rates of chronic disease are dramatically lower than the general population:
Cancer rates: 40–60% lower
Childhood obesity: just 4% (vs. 36.5% nationally!)
Type 2 diabetes: about 50% lower
Asthma and allergies: almost non-existent
What’s going on here? It’s not fancy supplements, apps, or high-tech solutions. The Amish simply live differently.
Move more: Amish men average 18,000+ steps per day
Eat local, seasonal, minimally processed foods
Have less exposure to plastics, pesticides, and toxins
Live closer to the rhythms of nature
Their health outcomes prove what we already know deep down: the body thrives in a supportive environment, and struggles in a toxic one.
What This Means for Us
Most of us aren’t about to trade in electricity for lanterns. But we can take lessons from this:
Prioritize real food over packaged, processed food
Get outside and move every single day
Limit exposure to toxic cleaning products, plastics, and artificial fragrances
Invest in real relationships and your community.
It’s not going “back in time” It’s making small, intentional choices that line up with the way humans were designed to live. Your health isn’t doomed by your genetics or saved by the next pill ad on TV. You have more power over your wellness than you’ve been led to believe.
Until next time, be well!