Some Valuable Things I Learnt About Nutrition and Health From Ellen White
Ellen G White, one of the founders of the Adventist church in America in the nineteenth century, outlined in her writings a very comprehensive picture of health. Written over 100 years ago, the health principles that she advocated, though unpopular at the time, have been validated by scientific research.
Some of the guidelines for disease prevention and health promotion that Ellen White wrote about included the following:
- Our bodies were designed for action, hence regular exercise is important to maintain good health (Ed 207)
- When grains, fruits, nuts and vegetables (including beans, peas and lentils) are simply prepared, they provide the basis for the most healthful diet (MH 296-9)
- Meat is not part of a healthy diet since cancer and other fatal diseases can be caused by meat-eating (MH 313)
- White flour lacks the nutritional value that is found in whole wheat bread and its use can cause health problems (MH 390)
- Alcohol should be avoided since it damages both the mind and body (Ed 202)
- It is important to learn the value of the simple remedial agencies of nature in order to preserve and restore one's health (MH 127)
- Overeating hinders the work of the body and causes great injury to the whole system (CD 13)
- Coffee is a habit-forming substance and its use may lead a person to use stronger stimulants (MH 327)
- Large amounts of sugary foods such as rich desserts (cakes, puddings, pastries, custards), jellies, candies, and ice-cream are not the best for our health (CD 331-3)
- Gratitude, rejoicing, benevolence, and trust in God are the greatest safeguards of health (MH 281)
- Many of the diseases from which people suffer today result from mental depression (MH 241)
- Regularity in meals, without any snacks, is important to maintain good health (MH 303)
- There are simple herbs that grow in the fields, when used intelligently, are conducive to health and their use can be beneficial to alleviate suffering (2SM 293-303)
- Olive oil is a better fat to use than butter (MH 298)
- As disease in animals increases, the use of milk and eggs will become more and more unsafe (MH 320)
- Mustard, pepper and other spices, and similar things are injurious to our health (CD 339)
- It is unwise to use too much salt (MH 305)
Author: Winston Craig, MPH, PhD, RD.
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