Ellen White wrote extensively on the topic of food and diet, emphasizing its importance for both physical and spiritual health. Her counsel centers on returning to a simple, natural diet. Here are some of the key principles from her writings: * **The Original Diet:** She advocated for a diet based on what God originally gave to humanity. "God has furnished man with abundant means for the gratification of an unperverted appetite. He has spread before him the products of the earth—a bountiful variety of food that is palatable to the taste and nutritious to the system. Of these our benevolent heavenly Father says we may freely eat. Fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared in a simple way, free from spice and grease of all kinds, make, with milk or cream, the most healthful diet" (Counsels on Health, 114, 115). * **Building Blocks for the Body:** She stressed the direct connection between the food we eat and our physical well-being. "Our bodies are built up from the food we eat... It is a wonderful process that transforms the food into blood and uses this blood to build up the varied parts of the body; but this process is going on continually, supplying with life and strength each nerve, muscle, and tissue" (The Ministry of Healing, 295). * **Impact on the Mind:** The benefits of a healthful diet were not limited to the body. She taught that it directly impacts mental and spiritual clarity. A simple diet of fruits and grains can "impart nourishment to the body and give a power of endurance and a vigor of intellect that are not produced by a stimulating diet" (Counsels on Health, 114, 115). She also stated that "God has given us the fruits and grains of the earth for food, that we might have unfevered blood, calm nerves, and clear minds" (The Review and Herald, February 21, 1888). * **Practicality and Attitude:** When making dietary changes, she advised using wisdom and tact. It is important to learn how to prepare "wholesome, palatable food to take the place of the harmful articles of diet we have discarded." Furthermore, she encouraged a positive and grateful atmosphere during meals: "Let the table be made inviting and attractive, as it is supplied with the good things which God has so bountifully bestowed. Let mealtime be a cheerful, happy time" (The Ministry of Healing, 385).