According to his latest medical report, President Donald Trump is in reasonably good health for his age of 78 years. His blood pressure and cholesterol levels are managed well, contributing to heart protection. Beyond some allergies and skin conditions, his good health could partly be attributed to abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes.
However, Trump’s eating habits are noteworthy. He is fond of fast food, which might explain why he takes two medications to lower his cholesterol. (Find out more about Donald Trump’s daily diet.) His dietary choices may also be why his body mass index (BMI) is 28, categorizing him as “overweight.”
In 2024, a routine colonoscopy revealed that Trump has diverticulosis, a condition common among individuals over 50. Diverticulosis refers to the presence of diverticula, which are abnormal pouches that form on the colon walls. Often symptomless, many may remain unaware they have it.
Consuming a diet low in fiber but high in red meat can heighten the risk of diverticulitis, where the diverticula become inflamed. A 2019 study in the European Journal of Nutrition suggests that increasing fiber intake can reduce the risk of diverticular diseases, including diverticulitis and diverticulosis. We may not know Trump’s exact fiber consumption, but the research indicates that adding 10 grams of fiber daily can decrease the risk of diverticular disease by 26%.
Preventing Diverticular Disease
While Trump’s abdominal exam showed no abnormalities, individuals with diverticulosis might experience abdominal pain if they have bowel issues like irritable bowel syndrome or frequent constipation. Diverticulosis can also lead to blood in the stool if a hard bowel movement puts pressure on a diverticulum, potentially rupturing a blood vessel. If someone with diverticulosis develops sharp abdominal pain, fever, or nausea, they may have diverticulitis, a medical emergency requiring antibiotics and fasting until the colon heals.
Fiber plays a crucial role in adding bulk and softness to stool. Without sufficient fiber, stools can become hard, stretching the colon and putting pressure on weak spots, potentially leading to diverticula. In the event of a diverticulitis flare-up, a low-fiber diet is often recommended until inflammation subsides. Here are some foods to include and avoid during a diverticulitis flare-up.
Trump and others with diverticulosis can minimize the risk of diverticulitis by increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and seeds. Other preventive measures include reducing the intake of red meat and sugary foods, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Additional Health Benefits of Fiber
Trump may wish to increase his fiber intake for other health advantages. Certain fiber sources, like asparagus, onions, and oats, act as prebiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. When these bacteria ferment fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that help reduce inflammation, influence metabolism, and bolster the immune system. This fermentation also lowers the pH in the colon, reducing harmful bacteria and toxic byproducts from protein digestion. While most people require at least 25 grams of fiber daily, many Americans fall short. Consider these 29 foods if you need to boost your fiber intake.
Fiber can lower the risk of chronic conditions. A 2013 review in Nutrients indicates that increasing oats, barley, and psyllium can reduce heart disease risk by lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol. Fiber also slows digestion, aiding in the reduction of type 2 diabetes risk. Additionally, a high-fiber diet can enhance feelings of fullness during meals, assisting with weight management.
