Trump’s Unusual Belief About Diet Soda

President Donald Trump holds an unconventional view about soft drinks, even by his own nontraditional standards. According to Mehmet “Dr. Oz” Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Trump believes that diet soda can kill cancer cells inside the body.

Trump’s devotion to fizzy drinks is so strong that he reportedly had a special button installed in his White House desk. The button summons an aide to bring him Diet Coke whenever he requests it.

Oz Reveals Trump’s Claim on Podcast

Oz shared Trump’s claim during a podcast hosted by Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr. The discussion centered on Trump’s unusual dietary habits and health beliefs.

“Then comes the diet soda pops, which your dad argues that diet soda is good for him because it kills grass [when] it’s poured on grass, so therefore, it must kill cancer cells inside the body,” Oz told Trump Jr.

Oz recounted an incident on Air Force One where he witnessed Trump drinking an orange soft drink. Trump allegedly defended the drink by saying:

“You know, this stuff is good for me, it kills cancer cells.”

“It’s fresh squeezed, so how bad could it be for you?”

Note: Orange soda is not “fresh squeezed,” and medical experts strongly disagree with Trump’s claim.

Medical Experts Dispute Trump’s Claim

Established medical research contradicts Trump’s belief. Soda consumption is linked to numerous health problems, including:

  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease

Diet soda is not a safe alternative. Studies suggest sugar-free versions may still contribute to weight gain and disrupt insulin response.

Historical Context: Coca-Cola’s Medicinal Origins

Coca-Cola was originally marketed as a medicinal tonic in the 19th century. Pharmacist John Pemberton invented the elixir in 1863, advertising it as a brain tonic and alcohol substitute. These claims have since been debunked by research. Additionally, soda has been associated with impulsive behavior and poor memory.

Trump’s Skepticism of Experts

Trump is known for disregarding expert advice, a trait reflected in his administration. Key figures with controversial health views include:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, who holds unfounded beliefs about vaccines.
  • Mehmet Oz, who has previously promoted unproven claims, such as coffee bean extract for weight loss.

Trump’s preference for soft drinks aligns with his well-documented love of fast food.

Further Reading: Soda’s Impact on Health

For more on the effects of soda consumption, read: Kids Who Drink Lots of Soda Found to Show More Impulsive Behavior, Worse Working Memory.

The post Donald Trump's Unverified Claim: Diet Soda Kills Cancer Cells appeared first on Futurism.

Source: Futurism