Donald Trump's health has sparked concern among experts after recent images revealed a striking transformation in his appearance. While global headlines have been dominated by the repercussions of Trump's tariff trade war, some observers have turned their gaze to his health. Recent photographs show a significantly slimmer Trump, now 78, as he approached Marine One earlier this month.
Reports suggest that Trump has lost a remarkable 30lbs (2st) since 2022, ditching his infamous love for fast food in favour of a more nutritious diet. Trump enthusiasts have commended his new trim figure, yet a medical professional has cautioned that drastic weight loss could indicate underlying health issues. Dr Daniel Atkinson, clinical lead at Treated.com, expressed concerns to the Irish Star about the potential health risks for someone Trump's age, including diabetes.
Dr Atkinson said: "For a hypothetical person, who has taken on the office of President of the United States for a second term, at the age of 80, there might be several factors that could affect their weight."
He added: "An almost 80 year old with a busy schedule might be more susceptible to certain conditions that can cause weight loss. Diabetes, for instance, can trigger weight fluctuations when the condition is uncontrolled. Blood sugar can become more difficult to regulate as we age, and insulin resistance can develop with age."
Diabetes is categorised into two distinct types – type one and type two.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Issues (NIDDK) explains that type 1 diabetes arises when your body produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that facilitates blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, to enter the body's cells for energy production.
Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, occurs when your blood glucose levels are excessively high. The NIDDK suggests that individuals who are overweight and over the age of 45, coupled with a consistent lack of physical activity, are more susceptible to developing it.
Having diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, eye disease and foot problems.
No, this does not imply that Trump has either type one or type two diabetes, and there has been no public statement from the White House concerning his recent weight loss.
What has garnered more attention is the catastrophic impact of his so-called 'Liberation Day' on April 2, which triggered global stock markets to plummet at an unprecedented rate, even faster than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He has since reversed his position on the tariffs, keeping most countries at the base-line level of 10% while escalating his tariffs on China.
