Overview
The Bible has long been a source of inspiration and guidance on many aspects of life, and this includes diet and health. Volume after volume of advice is given on how to eat real food and strategically maintain a healthy lifestyle. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all nutritional plan for everyone, the Bible does give wisdom about diet, nutrition and lifestyle that can help guide us towards optimal health.
Nutritional Guidelines From the Bible
The advice given in the Bible is based on balance and moderation. The Bible encourages the consumption of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, fish, and oils. It also preaches the abstention from rat, pig, and shellfish, which are banned from consumption in the Old Testament. Many of these recommended choices are among some of the most nutrient-dense and healthy foods on the planet.
The Bible warns against “too much honey,” and cautions about the dangers of getting too carried away with enjoying the good things in life. The warnings are presented in order to promote balance and moderation, so as not to harm oneself, prevent pain and discomfort, and ultimately, to remain in optimal health.
On a deeper level, the Bible tells us not to idolize food. The New Testament in particular gives us advice on this and even instructs us to pray, thank God and give Him gratitude before meals. Eating without reflection or awareness of what we’re consuming can lead to excess and obesity.
Building Healthy Habits
The Bible advises us to build healthy eating habits, like maintaining portion control, regularly exercising and being mindful about food. Moses’s ten dietary laws found in Deuteronomy 8 and Leviticus 11 effectively assist in establishing healthy nutritional habits.
The Bible stresses that every food is a blessing from the Lord and should therefore be taken in moderation. It mentions how to wisely approach gluttony, which the Bible describes as a state of extreme overindulgence in food and other areas of life.
The Bible encourages fasting as a way to break food addiction and be in control of one’s behavior. Fasting doesn’t necessarily have to involve not consuming food, but can express itself in other forms like abstention from technology or other engagements.
The Benefits of Eating Healthy
By following the dietary laws set in the Bible, we are subsequently reaping the benefits of eating healthy, wholesome and nutrient-rich food. Eating healthy has the potential to reduce the risk of various health issues, strengthen body immunity, and promote healthy skin, hair and nails.
The connection between physical, emotional and mental health is widely known, and numerous studies have shown that eating healthily can prevent and even restore emotional issues like depression and anxiety. Eating healthier also helps reduce stress levels, and as seen in the Book of Proverbs, eating healthily can contribute to emotional balance.
Benefiting the Lives of Others
In the Bible, God commands us to care for the poor, which is why He has taken the liberty to give us the righteous rules and guidelines for eating healthily. By simply following the nutrition advice laid forth in the Bible, it provides a ripple effect to others and their health in general.
Specifically, Deuteronomy 8 states that we should not forget the Lord and the work He did in order to provide Israel with its complete and prosperous land. Here, the Bible makes it clear that good health comes with a responsibility to take good care of what the Lord has blessed us with and to use it to help those in need.
Conclusion
The Bible continues to be seen by many as a source of inspiration, motivation and guidance on many aspects of life, including diet, nutrition and lifestyle. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all nutritional plan, the Bible teaches that whoever tunes into God’s wisdom on matters concerning health will prosper. Eating healthy is seen to reduce the risk of health issues, strengthen body immunity and emotional wellbeing, and promote emotional balance. Furthermore, the Bible commands us to share what we’re blessed with and take good care of it in order to help those in need.
