Amidst ongoing health debates, Donald Trump is reportedly considering appointing Dr. Aseem Malhotra, a British cardiologist known for his radical public health stances, to combat America's unhealthy eating habits.

Dr. Malhotra's controversial proposals could transform the American diet through the imposition of taxes and regulations on unhealthy foods, Mail Online reported.

The plan under consideration aims to address the chronic disease epidemic by targeting the over-consumption of ultra-processed foods. Dr. Malhotra, with his connections to influential public figures, may soon advise the White House on ways to reverse these troubling health trends.

Dr. Malhotra advocates for a regulatory approach similar to tobacco control. He proposes that unhealthy foods should carry warning labels detailing their links to diseases like cancer and heart disease, and suggests banning their sale in schools and hospitals.

Such policies, according to Dr. Malhotra, would decrease the availability, acceptability, and affordability of junk food, leading manufacturers to create healthier options. "You target the availability, acceptability, and affordability... you have to tax, that will raise the price and reduce the consumption... This would force the food industry to start developing more minimally processed food," he explained.

Challenging The Food Industry's Norms

"Why are we allowing ultra-processed food to be sold in schools and hospitals?... It legitimizes the acceptability of these foods," Dr. Malhotra questioned, emphasizing the need for societal change in food consumption habits.

The cardiologist is not advocating for a complete ban on junk food but stresses the importance of moderation. "I'm not talking about banning for everyone, people should still be able to have treats, I'm not against that," he clarified.

Reflecting on historical health campaigns, Dr. Malhotra added, "Imagine having a conversation back then and trying to imagine a world without smoking, it would have been unthinkable. But it can be done."

Controversial Views on Vaccine Policies

Dr. Malhotra has also been vocal about his skepticism regarding the rollout of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, a stance that has sparked further debate. He calls for a pause on their distribution due to concerns about potential side effects.

Despite Trump's known affinity for fast food, Dr. Malhotra believes the former president may be open to these public health initiatives. "He [Trump] said that if the drug industry is found to have been putting profits ahead of people, they need to be held accountable and fully investigated," he recounted.

"He's become awakened, because the actual primary duty of these drug industry is to put profits ahead of people. But Trump is saying this is not acceptable. So as far as I'm concerned, I think he's very much open and willing to change his mind," Dr. Malhotra asserted.

Health Experts Express Concerns

The Trump administration has yet to confirm Dr. Malhotra’s potential role. Meanwhile, health experts express concerns that his appointment might elevate vaccine skepticism and radical health policies, particularly if Trump secures another term in office.

Amid these uncertainties, Dr. Malhotra's proposed reforms may significantly impact the chronic disease landscape. His suggested sugar tax in the UK has already shown promise by reducing sugar content in beverages.

"I think you would start to see the impact of that on people's health very quickly," Dr. Malhotra predicted, hopeful about the potential improvements in public health.