Inside the Trump administration, a jar of sauerkraut has become more than a condiment—it's a status symbol. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Vice President JD Vance have all embraced a diet heavy on fermented foods and grass-fed meat, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
The regimen, designed by Dr. Sean O'Mara, emphasizes sauerkraut, kimchi, and grass-fed steak while cutting out alcohol and sugar. O'Mara claims the approach reduces visceral fat and supports gut health. Kennedy was the first to adopt it about a year ago, followed by Lutnick and Duffy. Vance started during Lent this year and has stuck with it.
Kennedy credits the diet with shedding 20 pounds in 30 days and alleviating his irregular heartbeat. Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) says he lost four inches off his waist. Vance reportedly eats fermented vegetables for both lunch and dinner.
But the diet comes with a hefty price tag. O'Mara's "optimization plans" start at $8,000, with direct consultations costing $18,000. Critics question whether the benefits justify the cost, especially for a diet that may not suit everyone.
Dr. Omer Awan, a professor at the University of Maryland, told NewsNation that while fermented foods can be anti-inflammatory and beneficial for gut and immune health, research on their long-term effects is limited. "The concern is that there isn't a lot of robust data about the benefits," Awan said. "Many of the studies are small."
Awan also warned that sauerkraut is high in sodium, which can cause fluid retention and pose risks for people with heart or kidney disease. "Moderation is key," he said. "Sauerkraut can be part of a diet, but it shouldn't be the only thing you're eating."
He recommended a balanced diet of proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats as the best approach. On weight loss, Awan noted that it ultimately comes down to calories in versus calories out, though sauerkraut's high fiber and low calorie count may help with satiety.
The cabinet's dietary shift comes amid broader political debates, including Trump's Iran deal and infrastructure controversies. For now, the fermented food craze highlights how personal health choices can become partisan talking points.
