Based on her writings, Ellen White had significant concerns about the overuse of sugar, considering it detrimental to health. Here are the key points she made: ### General Health Concerns Ellen White taught that large amounts of sugar are harmful, clog the system, and negatively impact the brain and digestive organs. * "I frequently sit down to the tables of the brethren and sisters and see that they use a great amount of milk and sugar. These clog the system, irritate the digestive organs, and affect the brain" (2T 370). * She stated, "from the light given me, sugar, when largely used, is more injurious than meat" (2T 370). * "The free use of sugar in any form tends to clog the system, and is not unfrequently a cause of disease" (CTBH 57). ### Combination of Milk and Sugar She specifically warned against combining large quantities of milk and sugar, as it could cause fermentation in the stomach. * "Large quantities of milk and sugar eaten together are injurious. They impart impurities to the system" (2T 369). * "Especially harmful are the custards and puddings in which milk, eggs, and sugar are the chief ingredients. The free use of milk and sugar taken together should be avoided" (MH 301.4). ### Sugary Foods and Indigestion Foods high in sugar were identified as direct causes of digestive problems. * "Far too much sugar is ordinarily used in food. Cakes, sweet puddings, pastries, jellies, jams, are active causes of indigestion" (MH 301.4). * "Sweet cakes, sweet puddings, and custards will disorder the digestive organs; and why should we tempt those who surround the table by placing such articles before them?" (YI, May 31, 1894). ### A Cautionary Tale She shared a story of a man who, after giving up meat, consumed large amounts of sugar to satisfy his appetite. This led to a severe decline in his health and eventual death, which she described as being a "victim to poor cooking" and immoderate sugar consumption (CTBH 158.2). ### A Principle of Moderation While strongly advising against its free use, she also acknowledged that a moderate amount could be acceptable in certain situations. In one instance, she advised that for a person with specific health needs, "A moderate amount of milk and sugar...would have answered the demand of appetite" (2T 383.4). In summary, Ellen White's counsel on sugar focused on avoiding its excessive use, particularly in combination with milk and in rich desserts, as she saw it as a cause of disease that clogs the system and harms overall health.