Many experts have said that the Seventh Day Adventist food beliefs and diet approach are one of the healthiest diet options available. Those that follow this faith are said to follow a lifestyle, which includes a good diet, exercise and spirituality. A good diet according to followers of the Seventh Day Adventist involves eating a vegetarian diet, which incorporates, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes. It is not also uncommon for some Seventh Day Adventists to follow a vegan diet.
Both tobacco and alcohol are also banned, and after these two substances, meat is regarded as the next worst thing that could be put into the body. When it comes to meat, in general, it is regarded as not allowed in the diet. This includes fish, beef, wild game or chicken.
The Seventh Day Adventist Diet Food Beliefs In More Detail
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The Main Food Sources
Vegetables, fruits and whole grains make up the crux of the diet. Although the SDA religion promotes a vegetarian diet, meat can be eaten if a follower really chooses to. Meats are however categorised as either ‘clean’ or ‘unclean.’ Clean meats are regarded as the same as Kosher meets. Shellfish and pork are forbidden.
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Products From Animals
Products such as dairy items or eggs are allowed as part of the Seventh Day Adventist diet, however, they should not be eaten too often in order to control and maintain good cholesterol levels. When it comes to dairy, ideally low-fat options should be consumed. Alternatives to dairy include almond, rice or soy milk.
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Foods That Are Limited
Food such as beans and legumes can be consumed, but only really in moderation. Foods that contain cholesterol, salts our sugar, once again, should only be eaten in moderation.
Overall the recommendation is that followers should be eating nine or more portions of fruit or vegetables each day and six or more portions of legumes, cereals and whole grains. It is also important to ensure that enough nutrients are eaten such as vitamin B12, iron, calcium, protein and zinc.
The Religious Perspective
The body is viewed as a temple of the Holy Spirit and therefore it is vital to take care of one’s body and treat it with the respect it deserves. The Holy Spirit lives in every Christian and for this reason followers need to eat a healthy, clean diet. In order to respect and honour God, all food and drink consumed should never have suffered i.e. meat. As mentioned above, alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided and vegetarianism is seen as the best way to achieve the best health and respect God. Vegetarianism is viewed as part of the Christian lifestyle and it is believed that God introduced vegetarianism in the book of Genesis.
The Kinds of Food Seventh Day Adventists Depend Upon
- Avocados
Avocados are not only low in salt; they are high in potassium, which makes them a great food source for those who have high blood pressure. For example, the amount of potassium in an avocado is 30% more than can be found in a banana.
- Nuts
Those that each nuts tend to have lower blood pressure, better levels of cholesterol, less chance of diabetes and a lower risk of cardiovascular related issues.
- Water
Six glasses of water should be consumed every day for those following the Seventh Day Adventist food beliefs. Water not only hydrates the body, it also flushes out everyday toxins.
- Soy Milk
A healthy alternative to dairy is soy milk. Soy milk can be used on cereals or as a whitener in herbal teas. Soy milk is low in fat and high in protein.
- Oatmeal
Oatmeal tends to be a staple when it comes to breakfast for Seventh Day Adventists. Oatmeal provides a good balance between carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of B vitamins and iron. As it is high in fibre, oatmeal is filling and to add flavour to oatmeal, dried fruit and nuts can be added.
- Beans
For protein, Seventh Day Adventists turn to beans as well as lentils and peas. It is worth bearing in mind that there are many varieties of beans that can be consumed and there are many different ways to prepare them. See our Seventh day Adventist recipe category for food ideas.
- Whole Wheat Bread
Bread that is 100% whole-wheat is not only healthy and convenient, it also provides many nutrients, which are crucial when it comes to the Seventh Day Adventist food beliefs and diet.
