Donald
Trump has always been vocal about his eating habits. Over the years, in various interviews and biographies, apart from the comments from White House staff, it has been clearly shown that the diet of the 79-year-old US President is dominated by fast food, sugar, and processed items. While it may suit his personal preferences, it is one diet people should not copy. Here is a closer look at five unhealthy foods Trump is known to eat frequently, and why they are absolutely bad for your health.
Fast and junk food
Trump praises fast-food chains – especially the American McDonald's - citing consistency and hygiene as reasons for his loyalty. He regularly gorges on burgers and fries, which are loaded with saturated fats, sodium, and calories – and offer very little fibre or micronutrients.
According to the
Asian Journal of Management, poor dietary habits, which include regular consumption, can spike the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes - especially when it is paired with a sedentary lifestyle.
Diet Coke (in excess)
Trump is famously teetotal; However, he does not like tea or coffee either, instead drinking up to 12 Diet Cokes a day, even installing a special button in the Oval Office to request one. While it is calorie-free, doctors say excessive intake of soda is linked in studies to metabolic issues, increased sugar cravings, and potential cardiovascular risks.
Healthline says artificial sweeteners disrupt gut bacteria and appetite regulation. The artificial sweeteners found in diet soda negatively affect your gut microbiome, which is the community of beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract.
Well-done steak with ketchup
Trump is famous for preferring his steak well-done and topped with ketchup. Cooking red meat at very high temperatures can produce harmful compounds associated with cancer risk. According to
Medical News Today, high-temperature cooking like grilling, broiling, and frying causes meat to form heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons – both of which are carcinogenic. Also, adding ketchup, which is packed with added sugars and sodium, makes the meal a poor choice for your heart and metabolic health. Nutritionists generally recommend lean proteins cooked gently and paired with vegetables.
Processed snacks
Trump has admitted to having a strong sweet tooth – and loves eating cookies or packaged snacks. Ultra-processed foods are engineered to be hyper-palatable, making it easy to overeat. However, they can cause chronic inflammation, weight gain, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Over time, these foods crowd out nutrient-dense options like fruits, nuts, and whole grains.
Also read: Practical Ways to Eat Nutritious Food Without Overspending
Low intake of fruits and vegetables
One of the most concerning parts of Trump’s diet is what he misses. He has openly said he avoids many vegetables and fruits. Studies like those published in the National Institutes of Health say a diet low in fruits and vegetables lacks fibre, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, which are extremely important for your digestion, immunity, and long-term disease prevention. This imbalance is associated with higher risks of colon cancer, heart disease, and premature ageing.
What are the key components of an ideal diet?
An ideal and sustainable diet focuses mostly on nutrient-dense, whole foods – which include five plus + servings of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains daily. It also emphasizes limiting processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats, while promoting healthy fats like olive and nut oils, along with hydration. Popular, balanced frameworks include the Mediterranean or DASH diets.