Based on the writings of Ellen G. White, here is a summary of her guidance on health and diet. ### The Foundation of a Healthful Diet The ideal diet, as appointed by the Creator, consists of plant-based foods. * **God's Original Plan:** "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." (MH 296.1) ### Key Principles of Diet and Health 1. **Simplicity and Preparation:** Food should be simple and prepared without harmful additives. * "Fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared in a simple way, free from spice and grease of all kinds, make, with milk and cream, the most healthful diet." (CTBH 47) * Care should be taken to make food both nutritious and appealing. A poorly prepared or impoverished diet can bring "reproach upon the cause of health reform." (9T 161.3) 2. **The Link Between Physical and Spiritual Health:** What we eat has a profound impact on our entire being. * "The diet affects both physical and moral health." (CTBH 79) * "Our habits of eating and drinking show whether we are of the world or among the number whom the Lord by His mighty cleaver of truth has separated from the world." (6T 372) * "Any unhealthful habit will produce an unhealthful condition in the system... The diet has much to do with the disposition to enter into temptation and commit sin." (CD 52.2) 3. **Temperance and Moderation:** It is possible to overeat even healthy food. * "As a people, with all our profession of health reform, we eat too much. Indulgence of appetite is the greatest cause of physical and mental debility, and lies at the foundation of feebleness which is apparent everywhere." (HR August 1, 1875, par. 6) 4. **Avoiding Extremes:** Health reform should be practical and not taken to unwise extremes. * "Others think that since health requires a simple diet, there need be little care in the selection or the preparation of food. Some restrict themselves to a very meager diet, not having sufficient variety to supply the needs of the system, and they suffer in consequence." (MH 318.3) 5. **Individual Needs:** Diet should be adapted to one's circumstances. * "Our diet should be suited to the season, to the climate in which we live, and to the occupation we follow." (MH 296.2) * When teaching health reform, especially to the poor, she advised against prescribing the "strictest diet" if their circumstances forbid it, as this would do "more harm than good." (9T 163.1) ### Specific Dietary Counsel * **Flesh Meats:** While not universally forbidden in all circumstances, a meat diet is not considered the most wholesome. "It is a mistake to suppose that muscular strength depends on the use of animal food. The needs of the system can be better supplied, and more vigorous health can be enjoyed, without its use." (PHJ September 1, 1905, par. 13) * **Regularity:** It is important to have regular meal times and avoid eating between meals. (T18 191.1) In summary, the guidance emphasizes a simple, plant-based diet, temperance in all things, and a recognition that our physical habits are deeply connected to our mental and spiritual well-being.