Diet and Mind
19
brain and brings peevishness into the disposition. And it has been
proved that two meals are better than three for the health of the sys-
tem. [
See
Counsels on Diet and Foods, “Number of Meals,” pages
173-178.
]
What a pity it is that often, when the greatest self-denial should be
exercised, the stomach is crowded with a mass of unhealthful food,
which lies there to decompose. The affliction of the stomach affects
the brain. The imprudent eater does not realize that he is disqualifying
himself for giving wise counsel, disqualifying himself for laying plans
for the best advancement of the work of God. But this is so. He cannot
discern spiritual things, and in council meetings, when he should say
Yea and Amen, he says Nay. He makes propositions that are wide of
the mark. The food he has eaten has benumbed his brain power.
Self-indulgence debars the human agent from witnessing for the
truth. The gratitude we offer to God for His blessings is greatly
[392]
affected by the food placed in the stomach. Indulgence of appetite is
the cause of dissension, strife, discord, and many other evils. Impatient
words are spoken and unkind deeds are done, dishonest practices are
followed, and passion is manifested—and all because the nerves of
the brain are diseased by the abuse heaped on the stomach.—MS 93,
1901.
Coffee Affects Mental and Moral Powers—Coffee is a hurt-
ful indulgence. It temporarily excites the mind, ... but the afteref-
fect is exhaustion, prostration, paralysis of the mental, moral, and
physical powers. The mind becomes enervated, and unless through
determined effort the habit is overcome, the activity of the brain is
permanently lessened.—
Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 34,
1890
. (
Counsels on Diet and Foods, 421
.)
Erroneous Eating Leads to Erroneous Thinking—The health
of the body is to be regarded as essential for growth in grace and the
acquirement of an even temper. If the stomach is not properly cared
for, the formation of an upright, moral character will be hindered. The
brain and nerves are in sympathy with the stomach. Erroneous eating
and drinking result in erroneous thinking and acting.—
Testimonies for
the Church 9:160
(1909).
High Appreciation of Atonement Blunted—When we pursue
a course to lessen mental and physical vigor—in eating, drinking,
or in any of our habits—we dishonor God, for we rob Him of the