When it comes to former U.S. President Donald Trump, his diet is as unconventional as his political career. While past presidents have been known for their carefully curated, health-conscious meals, Trump has consistently chosen fast food, avoiding greens altogether, and drinking diet soda by the gallon.
His approach to food might seem surprising for someone who held the highest office in the United States, but it also reflects his well-known personal preferences and aversion to change. In this article, we’ll explore Trump’s eating habits, the reasoning behind his diet, and whether his food choices had any impact on his health.
A Love for Fast Food
One of the most well-documented aspects of Trump’s diet is his strong preference for fast food. Unlike other politicians who opt for organic meals and nutrient-rich foods, Trump enjoys meals that are quick, convenient, and high in calories. He has been known to frequently order food from:
- McDonald’s: His typical order reportedly includes two Big Macs, two Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, and a chocolate shake.
- KFC: He has been seen enjoying a bucket of fried chicken, often eating with a knife and fork.
- Wendy’s: Another favorite spot, where he enjoys classic burgers and fries.
- Taco Bell: Even Tex-Mex fast food has a place in his diet, specifically the taco bowls.
Why Fast Food?
Trump’s love for fast food is not just about taste. He has openly praised chain restaurants for their cleanliness, consistency, and reliability. In his view, fast-food establishments follow strict health standards, making them safer than meals prepared by an unknown chef.
Additionally, his fast-paced schedule during his presidency often meant that fast food was the easiest option. Unlike newer politicians who embrace healthy eating trends, Trump seemed to take pride in his traditional American diet, showing little interest in superfoods or meal prepping.
No Greens in Sight
Perhaps even more surprising than his fast food habit is Trump’s aversion to vegetables. According to those close to him, he avoids salads and most green vegetables altogether. While many health experts emphasize the importance of leafy greens for longevity and disease prevention, Trump has never been seen indulging in a salad—or if he has, it is a rare occurrence.
Instead, his meals are often heavy on proteins, carbs, and fats, with little fiber or micronutrients. Given that a diet lacking vegetables is linked to numerous health complications like high cholesterol, obesity, and digestive issues, this dietary choice has raised concern among nutritionists.
The Diet Coke Obsession
If there’s one drink synonymous with Trump, it’s Diet Coke. Reports indicate that he drinks as many as 12 cans of Diet Coke per day, a habit that has been heavily scrutinized.
The Diet Coke Button
During his time in the White House, Trump even had a red button on his desk that was specifically used to summon Diet Coke at a moment’s notice. This quirky detail became a viral story, with many finding humor in the idea of a president having a dedicated soda button.
While diet soda is marketed as a healthier alternative to sugary beverages, consuming it in large amounts can still pose health risks. Studies suggest that excessive consumption of artificial sweeteners may:
- Increase cravings for sweet foods
- Cause metabolic disorders
- Affect gut health
- Potentially contribute to weight gain
How Does This Diet Affect Health?
Many people wonder how Trump’s diet has impacted his health, especially since he has never embraced exercise or healthy eating habits. While he claims to be in good health, medical professionals typically warn against the long-term effects of fast food and soda consumption.
Potential Health Risks
A diet heavy in fast food and devoid of vegetables is associated with several health concerns:
- Heart Disease: High consumption of processed foods and fried items can increase cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart issues.
- Obesity: While Trump’s weight has been a topic of speculation, excessive consumption of calorie-dense food contributes to weight gain.
- Diabetes: A diet high in sugar—especially with chronic Diet Coke consumption—can increase insulin resistance.
- Digestive Issues: Lack of fiber from fruits and vegetables can cause constipation and other gut health problems.
Trump’s former White House physician, Dr. Ronny Jackson, once described his health as “excellent,” but many critics have questioned the validity of this claim. Given his lack of exercise and his love for unhealthy foods, some speculate that he may be at risk for various chronic diseases typically associated with poor dietary habits.
Psychological Perspective on Trump’s Eating Habits
Beyond health, Trump’s eating habits provide insight into his personality. Many believe that his diet is a reflection of his larger-than-life persona—unapologetic, unfiltered, and resistant to change.
Control and Consistency
Trump’s reliance on fast food and Diet Coke might symbolize his desire for control and consistency. Fast food restaurants provide the same flavors and expectations no matter the location, helping him avoid variability.
Branding and Image
His food choices also play into his public image. By choosing all-American meals, he maintains his “man of the people” persona. Many of his supporters view his eating habits as relatable and refreshing when compared to politicians who embrace kale salads and organic smoothies.
Final Thoughts
Donald Trump’s diet—full of fast food, no greens, and endless cans of Diet Coke—is certainly unique among modern politicians. While some view his habits as a sign of indulgence, others see them as a reflection of his strong-willed personality.
However, from a health standpoint, his diet is far from ideal. Excessive fast food consumption, coupled with a lack of vegetables and high Diet Coke intake, carries multiple health risks. Regardless, Trump has shown little interest in changing his ways, proving that his food habits are just as unwavering as his political opinions.
Would this kind of diet work for the average person? Probably not—but for Trump, it seems to be a way of life.
What do you think about Trump’s diet? Would you ever follow a similar eating plan? Let us know in the comments!