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Counsels for the Church
God’s Original Plan for Man’s Diet
In order to know what are the best foods, we must study God’s
original plan for man’s diet. He who created man and who understands
his needs appointed Adam his food. “Behold,” He said, “I have given
you every herb yielding seed, ... and every tree, in which is the fruit of
a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for food.”
Genesis 1:29
, A.R.V.
Upon leaving Eden to gain his livelihood by tilling the earth under
the curse of sin, man received permission to eat also “the herb of the
[222]
field.”
Genesis 3:18
.
Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for
us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural
a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They
impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect that
are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet
In order to maintain health, a sufficient supply of good, nourishing
food is needed.
If we plan wisely, that which is most conducive to health can be
secured in almost every land. The various preparations of rice, wheat,
corn, and oats are sent abroad everywhere, also beans, peas, and lentils.
These, with native or imported fruits, and the variety of vegetables that
grow in each locality, give an opportunity to select a dietary that is
complete without the use of flesh meats.
Wherever dried fruits, such as raisins, prunes, apples, pears,
peaches, and apricots are obtainable at moderate prices, it will be
found that they can be used as staple articles of diet much more freely
than is customary, with the best results to the health and vigor of all
classes of workers
The Science of Cooking
Cooking is no mean science, and it is one of the most essential
in practical life. It is a science that all women should learn, and it
should be taught in a way to benefit the poorer classes. To make food
appetizing and at the same time simple and nourishing, requires skill;
but it can be done. Cooks should know how to prepare simple food
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The Ministry of Healing, 295, 296
377
The Ministry of Healing, 299