92
Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods
themselves to a very meager diet, not having sufficient variety to supply
the needs of the system, and they suffer in consequence.
Those who have but a partial understanding of the principles of
reform are often the most rigid, not only in carrying out their views
themselves, but in urging them on their families and their neighbors.
The effect of their mistaken reforms, as seen in their own ill-health,
and their efforts to force their views upon others, give many a false
idea of dietetic reform, and lead them to reject it altogether.
Those who understand the laws of health, and who are governed by
principle will shun the extremes, both of indulgence and of restrictions.
Their diet is chosen, not for the mere gratification of appetite, but for
the upbuilding of the body. They seek to preserve every power in the
best condition for highest service to God and man. The appetite is
under the control of reason and conscience, and they are rewarded
with health of body and mind. While they do not urge their views
offensively upon others, their example is a testimony in favor of right
principles. These persons have a wide influence for good.
There is real common sense in dietetic reform. The subject should
be studied broadly and deeply, and no one should criticize others
because their practice is not, in all things, in harmony with his own.
It is impossible to make an unvarying rule to regulate every one’s
habits, and no one should think himself a criterion for all. Not all can
eat the same things. Foods that are palatable and wholesome to one
person may be distasteful, and even harmful, to another. Some can not
use milk, while others thrive on it. Some persons can not digest peas
and beans; others find them wholesome. For some the coarser grain
preparations are good food, while others can not use them.
The Ministry of Healing, 321-324
Some are continually anxious lest their food, however simple and
healthful, may hurt them. To these let me say: Do not think that your
food will injure you; do not think about it at all. Eat according to your
[44]
best judgment; and when you have asked the Lord to bless the food
for the strengthening of your body, believe that He hears your prayer,
and be at rest.
Because principle requires us to discard those things that irritate the
stomach and impair health, we should remember that an impoverished