A man in a suit and red tie sits at a table with a salad, reminiscent of Donald Trump's preferred attire, while a lamp casts a glow over his glass of orange liquid.

Donald Trump’s Favourite Diet

Professions

Businessman, television personality, politician

Political Career

45th U.S. President (2017-2021), 47th U.S. President (2024-present)

Philosophy

"America First" approach, business-oriented, views exercise as potentially harmful

Daily Routine

Early riser (~5:30 AM), long workdays (12-14 hours) Minimal exercise, primarily golf Sleeps ~4-5 hours per night

Diet

Skips breakfast, favors fast food (McDonald's), well-done steak with ketchup. Regularly drinks Diet Coke (up to 12 cans daily), avoids alcohol and smoking.

Health Beliefs

Relies on "genetic advantage" over exercise or diet. Known for high energy and stamina despite unconventional health habits.

Introduction

Donald John Trump, born on June 14, 1946, is a prominent American businessman, media personality, and politician who served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. In a remarkable political comeback, he was re-elected as the 47th President in the 2024 election. Known for his unconventional leadership style, Trump has built a reputation on his business acumen, unfiltered communication, and deeply rooted “America First” philosophy.

Philosophy and Outlook

Trump’s worldview is shaped by his belief in self-confidence, bold decision-making, and a business-centric approach to governance. He is an advocate for placing American interests above all else, often focusing on policies that support national security, economic growth, and energy independence. His “America First” approach, marked by deregulation and tax reforms, reflects his belief in American strength, autonomy, and global leadership. In his personal philosophy, Trump subscribes to the idea of “genetic advantages” and often speaks about having inherited “good genes.” He has an unusual view of physical fitness, famously adhering to the “battery theory” of energy, which posits that the body has a finite energy reserve. He considers physical exercise, other than golf, potentially detrimental, preferring to conserve energy for business and political activities.

Side profile of a man in a suit and red tie, reminiscent of Donald Trump’s iconic style, with a serious expression, standing against a plain background.

Daily Routine and Lifestyle

Trump’s daily routine is a mix of early starts, long work hours, and structured time for news consumption and relaxation. Notable elements include:

  • Waking Up Early: Trump begins his day around 5:30 AM, often reading newspapers and watching cable news to stay informed on current events and public sentiment.
  • Personal Grooming: He spends approximately an hour grooming, particularly styling his signature hairstyle, which has become part of his public persona.
  • Work and Meetings: Trump works long hours, often 12-14 hours a day, meeting with aides, advisors, and officials. Known for his high energy, he operates with minimal breaks.
  • Limited Physical Exercise: Trump’s primary physical activity is golf, which he considers both a sport and a way to conduct informal business meetings.
  • Minimal Sleep: Trump reportedly sleeps only four to five hours per night, maintaining that he doesn’t require much sleep to function effectively.

Diet and Eating Habits

Trump’s diet is as unconventional as his approach to exercise. He is known for his love of fast food, which he trusts for its consistency and quality control. His typical dietary choices include:

  • Breakfast: Often skipped, though he occasionally has bacon and eggs.
  • Favorite Fast Food: McDonald’s, with a typical order consisting of two Big Macs, two Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, and a small chocolate shake.
  • Steak Preference: Trump favors his steak well-done, often paired with ketchup, a choice that has drawn attention for its simplicity.
  • Favorite Meals: In addition to fast food, Trump enjoys meatloaf, which he has said is based on a recipe from his mother, as well as fried chicken.
  • Drinks: While he avoids alcohol and has never smoked, he consumes Diet Coke in large quantities, reportedly drinking up to 12 cans per day.

His approach to diet is grounded in practicality and convenience, often favoring easily accessible and standardized meals from chain restaurants. Trump has also expressed a preference for familiar foods, possibly stemming from a reported fear of food contamination or poisoning.

Health Outlook

Trump’s health practices diverge sharply from conventional advice. He believes his longevity and resilience are due to genetics rather than diet or exercise. Key elements of his health philosophy include:

  • Exercise Skepticism: Trump has voiced concerns that exercise might deplete his body’s “energy battery,” opting instead for golf as his primary form of physical activity.
  • Dietary Choices: Despite his high-calorie, fast-food-heavy diet, Trump has relied on periodic health reports from his physician, often declaring him in “excellent” health. However, some health professionals have raised concerns about the long-term effects of his diet and lack of structured exercise.
  • Intermittent Fasting: Although not officially following a fasting regimen, Trump inadvertently practices intermittent fasting, sometimes going up to 16 hours without eating between dinner and his next meal.

Trump’s outlook on health and wellness is influenced by his belief in genetic strength over lifestyle habits. He trusts his natural vitality, maintaining that genetics will keep him in good health despite his diet and aversion to exercise.

Favorite Dishes

Donald Trump’s food preferences lean heavily towards classic American comfort food, particularly fast food. Here are some of his favorite dishes:

Big Mac & Filet-O-Fish Combo

One of Trump’s favorite orders at McDonald's is a mix of two Big Macs and two Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, finished with a small chocolate shake. This fast-food combination is his preferred indulgence, reflecting his love for straightforward, hearty flavors.

KFC Fried Chicken

Trump is a fan of KFC fried chicken and has been photographed with KFC buckets, showing his preference for fried, crispy chicken. The mix of seasoned breading and juicy chicken is a favorite, often paired with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.

Well-Done Steak with Ketchup

For a more formal meal, Trump enjoys a well-done steak, often served with ketchup on the side. His steak preference is famously specific, preferring it cooked thoroughly and accompanied by a generous serving of ketchup.

Meatloaf

Meatloaf is another one of Trump’s go-to comfort foods. He often enjoys a classic meatloaf, reportedly made from his mother’s recipe. This dish embodies his taste for simple, nostalgic, and filling meals.

Pizza (Hold the Crust)

While Trump likes pizza, he usually skips the crust. A classic pepperoni pizza or cheese pizza with the crust left uneaten is his typical choice, focusing on the toppings and cheese for a quick bite.

Diet Coke

Trump is well-known for his Diet Coke habit, reportedly drinking up to 12 cans per day. This beverage is a constant staple for him, often accompanying his meals.

Doritos and Lay's Potato Chips

For snacks, Trump prefers Doritos and Lay’s potato chips, adding a crunchy, salty treat to his diet. These snacks are a go-to for him, particularly on the go.

Vanilla Ice Cream (Two Scoops)

For dessert, Trump typically enjoys vanilla ice cream, often asking for two scoops. This simple dessert pairs well with his other indulgences, providing a classic, sweet end to his meals. Donald Trump’s diet is characterized by his love of fast food, hearty American classics, and high-calorie snacks, reflecting his preference for familiar, flavorful foods.

Recipes to Try

1
Two plates of sandwiches, one with a Big Mac and toppings, the other with a crispy chicken sandwich. A refreshing drink with ice sits nearby on a surface where shadow patterns dance, creating the perfect lunchtime combo.
Big Mac & Filet-O-Fish Inspired Combo
Recreate classic fast food at home with this Big Mac & Filet-O-Fish Inspired Combo. Enjoy juicy beef burgers, crispy fish sandwiches, and a creamy chocolate shake!
Check out this recipe
2
A plate of crispy fried chicken rests on fluffy mashed potatoes drenched in savory gravy, alongside a small bowl of extra gravy and two gleaming gold forks on a pristine white surface.
Crispy Fried Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
This Crispy Fried Chicken replicates the seasoned, golden-brown crust and juicy inside of classic KFC-style fried chicken.
Check out this recipe
3
Grilled steak on a white plate with parsley garnish, epitomizing American comfort, is accompanied by a small bowl of ketchup and a fork with a napkin.
Well-Done Steak with Ketchup – Classic American Comfort
This Well-Done Steak with Ketchup is cooked thoroughly to achieve a dark, crisp crust, perfect for those who prefer a steak with no pink inside.
Check out this recipe
4
A plate with classic meatloaf slices covered in comforting ketchup, alongside a fork. A small bowl of ketchup with a spoon is on the side.
Classic Meatloaf – Comforting, Hearty, and Delicious
This Classic Meatloaf is a hearty, comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a hint of ketchup glaze.
Check out this recipe
5
A gluten-free pepperoni pizza with melted cheese, topped with a sprig of fresh basil, sits invitingly on a round, gray plate against a light gray background.
Crust-Free Pizza Bake – Low-Carb, Gluten-Free Comfort
This Crust-Free Pizza Bake brings all the classic pizza flavors—savory marinara, melty cheese, and pepperoni—without the crust.
Check out this recipe
6
A bowl of creamy, homemade vanilla ice cream with three scoops casts a gentle shadow on the white surface.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream – Homemade, Rich, Creamy
This Classic Vanilla Ice Cream recipe delivers creamy, smooth, and rich vanilla flavor. Perfectly sweetened and made with real vanilla extract, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a straightforward, satisfying dessert.
Check out this recipe

Unique Aspects of His Lifestyle

Trump’s lifestyle choices reflect both his distinctive personality and his approach to public life. Some notable aspects include:

  • Intermittent Fasting by Default: Trump often goes without food for extended periods, particularly in the morning, until he eats lunch or a snack.
  • Preference for Golf: Trump’s primary recreational activity, golf serves a dual purpose in his life. It provides a low-impact form of exercise and doubles as an informal setting for business discussions.
  • Fear of Food Contamination: His love of fast food reportedly stems from his belief that fast food chains have strict quality control processes, reducing the risk of contamination.
  • Diet Coke Habit: Trump’s consumption of Diet Coke is well-documented, with sources reporting that he may drink a dozen cans in a single day.

A man in a suit sits at a table with plates of food, holding a fork, reminiscent of Donald Trump's signature dining style.

Conclusion

Donald Trump’s lifestyle, diet, and health philosophy are as unorthodox as his public persona. His reliance on fast food, minimal exercise, and the “battery theory” of energy make him a subject of fascination and debate among health professionals and political observers alike. His belief in genetic advantages, coupled with a rigorous work schedule and minimalist approach to sleep, has enabled him to maintain high energy levels and an active public presence. Despite criticism, Trump’s approach reflects his commitment to efficiency and pragmatism, whether in personal health or political leadership. His lifestyle choices and philosophies serve as a testament to his unique character, illustrating how one’s health and work ethic can be as much a matter of mindset as of routine.

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