Trump Defends High Aspirin Use Amid Health Concerns

Jan 2, 2026, 2:36 AM
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President Donald Trump has openly discussed his health in a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, revealing that he takes a higher dose of aspirin than his doctors recommend. This admission comes amid growing scrutiny regarding his health as he approaches the end of his second term in office, during which he will be the oldest sitting president in US history at 82 years old.
Trump explained that he takes 325 milligrams of aspirin daily, a dosage that exceeds the typical recommendation of 75 to 100 milligrams for cardiovascular health. He stated, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don't want thick blood pouring through my heart. I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?". This higher dosage has been linked to the visible bruises on his hands, which have raised questions about his health and well-being.
The president's physician, Dr Sean Barbabella, confirmed that the bruising is consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin. However, medical experts have expressed concerns about the risks associated with such a high dosage, particularly for someone of Trump's age. Dr Jonathan Reiner, a cardiologist, noted that while 325 milligrams is not an extremely high dose, it is unnecessary for daily use and increases the risk of bleeding without providing additional benefits.
In the interview, Trump also addressed other health-related issues, including a CT scan he underwent in October, which he initially mischaracterized as an MRI. He expressed regret about the scan, stating, "In retrospect, it's too bad I took it because it gave them a little ammunition," referring to critics who question his health. The scan was performed to rule out cardiovascular issues, and the results were reported as normal, with no abnormalities found.
Despite the visible signs of aging, including bruising and swelling in his legs attributed to chronic venous insufficiency, Trump remains defiant about his health. He dismissed concerns about appearing drowsy during public events, claiming he was merely resting his eyes or blinking, and insisted that he has plenty of energy, attributing it to his genetics. "Genetics are very important," he said, "and I have very good genetics".
Trump's lifestyle choices have also come under scrutiny. He has admitted to a diet that includes fast food and a general aversion to exercise, describing traditional workouts as "boring." He stated, "To walk on a treadmill or run on a treadmill for hours and hours like some people do, that's not for me".
As he continues to face questions about his health, Trump has maintained a dismissive attitude towards the media's portrayal of his condition. He expressed irritation at repeated inquiries about his health, stating, "Let's talk about health again for the 25th time. My health is perfect".
In summary, Trump's high aspirin intake and the visible effects on his health have sparked discussions about the implications of his choices as he navigates the challenges of leading the country at an advanced age. While he insists on his vitality and fitness for office, the medical community remains cautious about the potential risks associated with his health practices and lifestyle choices.

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