Does the Bible have anything material to say about food? Did God, in His Holy Word, use up valuable space to discuss what we should eat? The book of Leviticus has specific food instructions for Jewish families. The New Testament appears to be a bit more relaxed.
But, is it?
Grace-based stewardship is more challenging to navigate than etched-in-stone laws. Consider what Paul wrote to the church in Corinth: “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.”
Theoretically, we can do anything we want, but is that savvy stewardship of our bodies? The answer is obviously “No,” but that doesn’t stop well-intentioned but misguided Christians from living a life designed around YOLO instead of Luke 9:23.
Let’s uncover some simple changes that provide maximum results.
3 John 2 (NIV) Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
This heartfelt verse from the Bible encapsulates the essence of health and well-being. It’s a reminder that our physical health is intertwined with our spiritual and emotional states, and caring for our bodies is a form of honoring the life we’ve been given. We can do simple things to maximize our well-being by embracing healthy eating, regular exercise, and staying close to Jesus.
The Power of a Plant-Based Diet
One does not need to be a vegan or vegetarian to maximize the power of plants in their diet. In the antediluvian times, it appears that all of God’s family were at least vegetarians. After the floods subsided, God provided a different eating plan for mankind.
Genesis 9:3 (NIV) Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.
Plant-based diets have surged in popularity, and for good reason. These diets, which emphasize fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, are rich in nutrients while naturally low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Studies have shown that individuals who follow a plant-based diet often enjoy lower risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: Plant-based foods are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Fruits and vegetables are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Reduced Inflammation: Many plant-based foods have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to combat chronic inflammation linked to various illnesses.
Spiritual Connection: For many, choosing a plant-based lifestyle aligns with stewardship principles, emphasizing care for creation (giving the land and animals a sabbath) and ethical treatment of animals (Proverbs 12:10). This approach resonates with biblical values of compassion and mindful living.
Choose Organic Food for Maximum Health (if possible)
I recently read a book titled Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means. I recommend the book with a strong caveat: it’s definitely not faith-first. The book personified the Deep South colloquialism, “Eat the chicken, spit out the bones.” You’ve been warned. However, there is some great stuff about how eating organic food protects our cells and microbiome.
We’ve recently been doing our best to incorporate as many organic foods into our diets as possible. No lie, it’s challenging and more expensive. Most of our shopping is done at Aldi (that’s how we roll). They have a decent selection of organic fruits and vegetables. We still have plenty of room to grow in this area.
Eating organic has become a vital aspect of healthy living. Organic foods are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), making them a cleaner and safer option for consumption.
Benefits of Organic Eating:
- Reduced Exposure to Toxins: Organic farming avoids harmful chemicals that can accumulate in the body over time and damage mitochondria.
- Higher Nutrient Content: Some studies suggest that organic produce contains higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, iron, and magnesium.
- Support for Sustainability: Organic farming practices promote soil health, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
When shopping for organic foods, prioritize the “Dirty Dozen” (produce with the highest pesticide residues):
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard, and mustard greens
- Peaches
- Pears
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Bell and hot peppers
- Cherries
- Blueberries
- Green beans
What If I Can’t Afford Organic Food?
- Wash Thoroughly: Rinse produce under running water and use a brush for firmer items like apples or potatoes. This alone can reduce pesticides by up to 69% (Epicurious).
- Soak in Baking Soda Solution: Studies suggest that soaking fruits and vegetables in baking soda and water can reduce pesticide residues. This article states that baking soda can drastically reduce pesticides (sometimes up to 98.9%!).
- Peel When Possible: Removing the outer skin can significantly reduce pesticide exposure, though some nutrients may be lost. I’d rather scrub than peel, personally.
- Buy Seasonal and Local: Local seasonal produce often has lower pesticide levels due to shorter supply chains. Talk to the farmers about what they use.
- Start a garden of your own: My wife began a raised-bed garden a few summers ago. No lie, there is a learning curve. The upside is that food tastes better, and we can keep it organic.
Consider local produce to ensure freshness and support local farmers. If small farmers stop farming, we all will be stuck with the industrial food complex and their Frankenfoods.
Fermented Foods (A Key to Gut Health)
Fermented foods have been a cornerstone of traditional diets worldwide for centuries, offering remarkable benefits for digestive health. Fermentation is a natural process that enhances the nutritional value of foods and introduces beneficial probiotics—live microorganisms that support a balanced gut microbiome.
I’ve recently been trying my hand at fermenting foods. I began with sauerkraut, and it was easy to do. I then fermented carrots. Following that, I made red cabbage (it’s purple, people!) and beet sauerkraut. That one has a few more days of fermenting. My next project is beet kvass. Wish me luck!
Popular Fermented Foods:
- Yogurt and Kefir: Rich in probiotics, these dairy products aid digestion and boost immunity.
- Sauerkraut and Kimchi: Fermented vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and gut-friendly bacteria.
- Kombucha: This fizzy, fermented tea is a refreshing source of probiotics.
- Tempeh and Miso: Fermented soy products offer plant-based protein and beneficial enzymes.
Health Impacts:
- Improved digestion and nutrient absorption
- Strengthened immune system
- Enhanced mental health due to the gut-brain connection
Incorporating fermented foods into your diet is a simple and delicious way to nurture your gut and overall well-being.
Exercise Is A Perfect Partner for Healthy Eating
Healthy eating and regular exercise go hand in hand. Physical activity amplifies the benefits of a nutritious diet, promoting a vibrant and energetic life.
Keep it simple. There is no need to break the bank by joining the most expensive gym in your city. Go for a walk. Do some squats. Take the stairs. Park your car in the back of the lot when shopping.
Benefits of Exercise:
- Cardiovascular Health: Walking, running, or cycling strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
- Weight Management: Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions.
- Mental Clarity: Regular movement releases endorphins, enhancing mood and reducing stress.
- Bone and Muscle Strength: Weight-bearing exercises and resistance training fortify bones and muscles.
Tips for Staying Active:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Include strength training exercises twice a week.
- Find activities you enjoy, such as dancing, hiking, or swimming, to stay motivated.
Eating Biblically
The Bible encourages us to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Integrating a whole-foods-plant-based diet, choosing organic foods (when possible), enjoying fermented food, and staying active are practical ways to fulfill this mandate. These habits enhance physical health and nurture mental and spiritual well-being.
Let 3 John 2 inspire you to prioritize your health in all aspects of life. Doing so aligns with our biblical mandate for a thriving, abundant life. Start today with small, incremental changes, and witness the transformation from embracing health-centered stewardship.
Stewardship is multi-faceted. We only get one body. Let’s make the most of it and treat it well. God, one day, will reward us for what we do in our bodies – whether good or bad.