Ellen G. White’s counsels on diet emphasize simplicity, moderation, and the importance of wholesome, well-prepared food. Here are several key points from her writings:
1. **Simplicity and Moderation**: She recommends eating only two or three kinds of simple food at each meal and not eating more than is needed to satisfy hunger. Regular physical activity is also encouraged (
MH 310.1;
HL 81.5).
2. **Diet for Expectant Mothers**: Expectant mothers are advised to maintain a simple, nutritious diet and avoid foods that are innutritious or overly stimulating, even if they taste good (
2T 382.2).
3. **Avoiding Insufficient Diet**: She cautions against living on an insufficient diet and encourages individuals to learn what foods best nourish their bodies, following reason and conscience (GW 241; GW92 174.3).
4. **Self-Control and Appetite**: Self-control is important—never deprive the body of what it needs, but also avoid overeating. Appetite should be kept under the control of reason (
CTBH 58.3;
MH 323.2).
5. **Wholesome and Palatable Food**: She stresses the importance of using wholesome, palatable food in place of harmful foods and highlights the duty of providing strengthening, enjoyable meals (
9T 162.4;
CTBH 58.1).
6. **Teaching and Cooking**: Ellen White encouraged cooking schools and education in preparing wholesome food, warning against advocating a starvation diet (
9T 112.3).
7. **Specific Food Recommendations**: She suggests giving up rich desserts and instead eating good bread with fruits for one meal, and nicely prepared vegetables for another. She also recommends a diet of fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared simply and free from spices and grease, with milk and cream as suitable additions (
HL 82.6;
HL 78.6).
These counsels highlight the value of balance, self-control, and education in healthy eating habits.
**References:**
- The Ministry of Healing (
MH 310.1;
MH 323.2)
- Healthful Living (
HL 78.6;
HL 81.5;
HL 82.6)
- Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2 (
2T 382.2)
- Gospel Workers (GW 241; GW92 174.3)
- Counsels on Health (
CTBH 58.1;
CTBH 58.3)
- Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9 (
9T 112.3;
9T 162.4)
If you’d like more details or specific references, feel free to ask!