Donald Trump may soon initiate a sweeping campaign against unhealthy eating, potentially marking one of the largest public health initiatives in U.S. history.
Despite his well-known love for fast food, a doctor who might advise the forthcoming administration asserts that Trump is serious about transforming American diets.
Dr. Aseem Malhotra, a British cardiologist and frequent podcast guest, has close connections to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and cautions that the nation’s chronic disease crisis is closely linked to excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods.
In discussions regarding a potential role in the White House, Dr. Malhotra suggested treating junk food similarly to tobacco. He advocates for bans on high-calorie items like burgers and pizzas in schools and hospitals and supports a ‘fat tax’ on unhealthy snacks.
He elaborated that public health strategies must target the availability, acceptability, and affordability of food. By taxing unhealthy options, consumption could be reduced, encouraging the food industry to develop healthier alternatives.
Dr. Malhotra, who previously advised the UK government, highlighted the success of the sugar levy implemented in Britain, which reduced sugar intake across the population.
While Trump’s team has not confirmed Dr. Malhotra’s potential role, he is being considered for a position focused on combating heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. Ultimately, Dr. Malhotra believes if robust policies are enacted promptly, significant improvements in public health could be seen during Trump’s presidential term.
Vocabulary List:
- Initiative /ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/ (noun): An important new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem.
- Excessive /ɪkˈsɛs.ɪv/ (adjective): More than is necessary normal or desirable; immoderate.
- Consumption /kənˈsʌmp.ʃən/ (noun): The act of using eating or drinking something.
- Affordability /əˌfɔːrdəˈbɪlɪti/ (noun): The state of being affordable; the ability to be obtained without great expense.
- Advocate /ˈædvəkɪt/ (verb): To publicly recommend or support.
- Strategies /ˈstrætɪdʒiz/ (noun): Plans of action designed to achieve a particular goal.
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