A Nutritious Diet, May 8

Keeping Physically Fit

Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Isaiah 55:2.ML 132.1

Health reform is an intelligent selection of the most healthful articles of food prepared in the most healthful, simplest form.^{30Manuscript 81, 1894.}ML 132.2

Our bodies are built up from the food we eat. There is a constant breaking down of the tissues of the body; every movement of every organ involves waste, and this waste is repaired from our food. Each organ of the body requires its share of nutrition. The brain must be supplied with its portion; the bones, muscles, and nerves demand theirs. 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.^{31The Ministry of Healing, 295.}ML 132.3

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. They impart nourishment to the body and give a power of endurance and a vigor of intellect that are not produced by a stimulating diet.^{32Counsels on Health, 114, 115.}ML 132.4

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. As we enjoy the gifts of God, let us respond by grateful praise to the Giver.^{33The Ministry of Healing, 385.}ML 132.5

God has given us the fruits and grains of the earth for food, that we might have unfevered blood, calm nerves, and clear minds.^{34The Review and Herald, February 21, 1888.}ML 132.6