A diet centred on fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi has reportedly gained popularity among several senior officials in President Donald Trump's administration, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
Among those said to be following the diet are Vice President JD Vance, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, per a report by Hindustan Times.
The eating plan is based on guidance from doctor Sean O'Mara and reportedly combines fermented foods with grass-fed steak, per HT. People following the approach are also advised to avoid alcohol and sugary foods. O'Mara believes the diet may help reduce visceral fat, which accumulates around internal organs, and could support digestive health.
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White House diet trend sparks attention
According to the report cited by HT, the growing popularity of the diet has led to an unusual side effect. Large amounts of fermented cabbage have reportedly been linked to strong-smelling gas and odours.
The WSJ reported that these "sulfurous odours" have become noticeable enough to create some domestic tension among those following the diet.
Kennedy is said to have been among the first senior Trump administration officials to adopt the sauerkraut-focused eating plan around a year ago. Vance reportedly joined during the Christian season of Lent and has continued with it since then.
What exactly is the sauerkraut diet?
Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage. The fermentation process allows beneficial bacteria to break down the food over time, altering its taste, texture and nutritional profile.
According to Healthline, sauerkraut may have originated in China more than 2,000 years ago. Today, it is widely consumed as a side dish or condiment in many countries.
Because it is fermented, sauerkraut contains probiotics and a range of vitamins that are present in different amounts than in fresh cabbage, contributing to its popularity among people seeking fermented foods in their diets.
It remains unclear whether President Donald Trump is following the same eating plan.
Kennedy and Vance among followers
Kennedy has previously spoken about the impact the diet had on him. According to the report, he claimed to have lost around 20 pounds in 20 days while consuming foods such as yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut.
He has also credited the diet with helping reduce aches and pains. Details about his eating habits were reportedly shared by his wife, Cheryl Hines, during a podcast hosted by Katie Miller.
The WSJ reported that Vance regularly eats sauerkraut at lunch alongside eggs, pickles and berries. For dinner, he reportedly prefers beef or lamb served with sauerkraut.
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Per HT, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is said to take the concept a step further by making his own fermented vegetables at home.
FAQs:
What is the sauerkraut diet?
It is a diet that emphasises fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi, often paired with grass-fed meat.
Is Donald Trump following the sauerkraut diet?
There is no confirmation that Trump is following the diet.
