The 'Do's" of the Word of Wisdom

This is the article that Jann referenced in her Relief Society lesson on Sunday.

The 'Do's' of the Word of Wisdom

by Christine Rappleye

The Word of Wisdom outlined in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants can seem a little vague at times

Sure it's specific on what to avoid: tobacco, strong drinks and hot drinks.

But the healthy part seems just to include general categories, and now there are studies and diets that seem to contradict each other.

"It has to be a personal thing," said chef Brad Petersen at BYU's Campus Education Week. "You need to do what is best for you and for your family under the direction of the Spirit."

Everyone has different genetics, allergies and other preferences that factor into a diet. "It's amazing how our bodies will tell us if it's good or bad," Petersen said. "If you just listen to your body." Just because a person avoids the "don'ts" of the Word of Wisdom doesn't mean they are following the health law, Petersen said. There is a list of "do's" in there, too.

Meat (verses 12 and 13)

Petersen says he loves good steak. But, like many good things, take it in moderation. "We don't think a meal is a meal without meat," he said. Human bodies need the proteins and fatty acids in their diets for their bodies to function properly, he added. Those choosing a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle need to be sure they are getting proteins in their diet.

Grains (verse 14)

"There are a few things we get an 100 percent go on," Petersen said. Grains is one of them. And the grain family includes much, much more than just wheat.

"Grains are just absolutely amazing," said Petersen, who told the group that he can't have white flour or wheat and is lactose intolerant (but ice cream is still OK).

And the biggest thing is getting enough fiber, which is the equivalent of taking a broom to a colon. Processed foods will coat the colon and can cause problems with nutrients being absorbed properly. "It's amazing how quickly the body responds to good food," he added.

"In the season thereof" (verse 11)

"Have you ever heard of anyone dying from eating too much fruit?" Petersen joked. The human body has different needs in different seasons and in different climates.

Strawberries are one of the first fruits of spring and act as a cleanser in the digestive tract. Root vegetables, like carrots, are available in the fall to help prepare for the winter months. "Everything Heavenly Fathers has done is for a purpose," he said.

Eating fruits and vegetables in season also ensures they're fresh.

Lessons and blessings

The Word of Wisdom doesn't promise a perfectly healthy body, but principles to guide personalizing a healthy diet.

"There is a spiritual thing that happens when you make food slowly and not out of a box," Petersen said, who is a supporter of the "slow food movement" that advocates taking time to cook food rather than just popping it in the microwave.

Many times, doing things the quickest way possible and taking shortcuts isn't always the healthiest. That and all of the chemicals in processed foods may interfere with the body's natural processes. "My rule of thumb is if man has messed with it, then go without it," said Petersen.

And food is to be enjoyed (see verses 15-16). "Think about the foods you're eating," Petersen said. "We still have to use wisdom in what we choose."