Discovering the Word of Wisdom: A Short Film
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- Опубліковано 2 вер 2015
- See how Latter-day Saints are finding the hidden treasures in the Word of Wisdom. Learn more: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com.... The Word of Wisdom is a dietary health code Latter-day Saints believe is a revelation from God for the physical and spiritual benefit of all the people of the world. This short film introduces the Word of Wisdom from a whole food, plant-based perspective.
This video features seven Latter-day Saints who have embraced a Word of Wisdom diet.
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Join the Word of Wisdom Health Challenge on Facebook:
/ wowhealthchallenge
Contact the producer, Jane Birch:
discoveringthewordofwisdom.com...
THE DIETARY PRINCIPLES OF THE WORD OF WISDOM
When people think of the Word of Wisdom, they usually think of not using alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tea, but the Word of Wisdom also contains three dietary principles that point toward eating a “whole food, plant-based (WFPB) diet.” While keeping this part of the Word of Wisdom is not a commandment, great blessings can come from heeding this wise counsel.
The three dietary principles in the Word of Wisdom are:
1. All “wholesome herbs [plants] . . . in the season thereof” should be used with “prudence and thanksgiving.” (D&C 89:10-11).
The first principle focuses on the prudent use of wholesome (think “whole”) plant foods. Wholesome plant foods include whole vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes (beans, etc.). Animal foods are not plant foods. Highly processed foods (including refined carbs, oils, and junk foods) are neither wholesome nor prudent. They are nutritionally poor, highly concentrated foods designed to get us to over-consume. Whole plant foods contain all the amazing nutrients God packaged them with, along with fiber and water which create bulk and satiety.
2. Animal flesh is ordained for human use, but it should be eaten sparingly, and it is pleasing to the Lord if it is not used, except in times of need (“times of winter . . . cold, or famine” and “excess of hunger”) (D&C 89:12-13, 15).
Study after study show a correlation between even moderately high animal food consumption, obesity, and chronic disease. Since, animal foods are not needed for nutritional purposes and unavoidably contain harmful substances, these foods should be kept to a minimum, if eaten at all, for optimal health. Better to save them for times of need.
3. “All grain is good” and is ordained to be the “staff of life.” (D&C 89:14, 16).
Fruits and vegetables are great at providing nutrients, but not at providing calories. Whole grains, beans, and other starchy plant foods provide sufficient energy with none of the extreme negative features of other calorie dense foods, like animal foods and processed foods. They are delicious, satisfying, and (despite the current rhetoric) key to weight loss. The bulk of our calories should come from whole starchy plants, which are primarily the whole grains, such as wheat, barley, oats, rice, corn, and millet.
This is James' wife. Tears were streaming down my face while watching this film because it is an answer to my prayers. I have cut out all sugar and flour and have been trying to eat healthier, but I felt that there was more out there. Recently I have tried to study the word of wisdom for answers and I knew that there had to be more there than I was seeing, but my eyes were closed to it. I have prayed many times for help to get control of my health. Then the thoughts started coming to search the word of wisdom on the internet. I really thought that nothing would be there so for a few weeks I ignored the prompting. Finally when I had a few minutes before picking my kids up from school I googled the "Word of Wisdom" and this caught my eye. My tears flowed freely and I felt such peace and love from Heavenly Father. He opened my eyes to see what I was so blind to see before in the Word of Wisdom. I keep crying in thanksgiving to God for directing me to this. Right away I told my husband everything that had happened and he is behind me 100%. Thank you for sharing your story.
Blessings to you! Thanks for sharing your tender feelings. You may want to check out the website: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com. There is also a Facebook support group: facebook.com/groups/wordofwisdomprivategroup/
This was so good! 🙏🏼 thank you for sharing truth....it’s never old❤️
Thanks so much, Eva!
Oh my goodness, I've been looking for something like this for ages! Thank you so much for making this video!
I loved this film! I have experienced this myself over the last two months. I was diagnosed with diabetes 2 months ago with an A1C of 10.4. I changed my diet in the exact ways recommended in this film and the Word of Wisdom. Now, 2 months later, I have lost 25 pounds and my A1C was 6.5 (and that includes averaging in the final bad month).
Awesome, Cynthia! Thanks for sharing. It is typical on this diet to experience great health results, and each story is special. Would you be willing to share your story on the Discovering the Word of Wisdom website? See: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/share-story/. Thanks again! -Jane +Cynthia Hampton
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from
This was great. I converted to the church after studying near death experiences for years. There were a few NDEs I remember where health of ones body was specifically emphasized. Before joining the church I even stopped eating meat myself after a couple of near death experiences where emphasis was put on not eating meat. I found that I actually understood the fullness of the significance and importance of the words of wisdom when I read it. This is from Our Heavenly Father and could do so much to help humanity heal itself!
Thanks so much for sharing these profound insights. I too love to read near death experiences and have found it interesting that going vegetarian is one of the scientifically established common results of having had a NDE. There are many NDEs that describe the person's coming to understand the preciousness of animals and how we will be held responsible for the necessary death of these creatures. Take care!
I could cry!!! I've always wanted to be vegan and I did so and my parents argued against it, saying it claims that we should eat meat in D&C. But the way they explain it makes soo much sense, and it's how I saw it. I just know Heavenly Father didn't create animals for us to exploite the way they are. Whole food plant based just keeps our mind, bodies and souls in check and vibrant! I love this.
So I have always hated vegans, I think they're psychotic. But I kind of want to become vegan myself. Could you help me with some of the common misconceptions? Why do I see vegans as pale and weak? What is a healthy way to look at veganism? How can I reconcile a low-or-no meat lifestyle with family and friends who say I'm a food freak?
Mark Brand Well just follow vegan youtubers they aren't pale and weak. To your friends just talk to them politely and you will show you through your example of change that it's very healthy.
Love this comment, I feel the same way! ❤️
@@bob15479 I am vegan!
Excellent video. A natural, healthy and sustainable diet. Section 89 is such a gift.
Thanks for this wonderful video. It's great to see other LDS families eating vegan. I wish more people did.
Peace and love ❤️
I have been following this plan for 18 months and it has changed my life. I have lost weight and improved my overall health. I intend on following this plan forever.
Keep going strong, Larry!! You are such an inspiration!!! -Jane +Larry Strong
Such a beautiful film ♥️♥️♥️ having a whole food, plant-based diet has changed my life in every way. Thank you Jane Birch!!!♥️
Thanks so much Victoria! So glad to hear it!! ❤️
Love this! I am fascinated with finding diets that match the word of wisdom. I am happy to find that someone already made a video! I especially love that you added the voices of prophets who speak specifically about the word of wisdom and the importance of healthy eating! great job!
So glad you found us here! Feel free to join the Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/wordofwisdomprivategroup/ -Jane
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
"That which affects our stature affects our soul." What a wonderful quote to live by! Thank you once again, Jane. You've made a big difference to so many "souls!"
I love that quote, too, Debbie. Thanks for commenting. You are a beautiful person! +Debbie Ripplinger
I love the church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints. Heavenly Father always gives us directions to help us. Heavenly Father and our Savior is very mindful of us.
I loved this film! I am a convert of 43 years but it has only been the last 2 years I have given this serious thought and have changed my life to live more fully the Word of Wisdom. Sometimes it is still hard to change old habits and traditions but the film is right when it is expressed that the Lord blesses us even when we try!
It is hard to change old habits and traditions, but the gospel is all about change! And the Lord is very patient with us. I know the Lord will bless us for all that we do. Bless you! Jane+debra Mccready
debra Mccready do you drink mild drinks?
Thank you so much for sharing your examples with others! I've been vegetarian for almost 4 years + always trying to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and grains. I love it! It was harder in the beginning but it's so so rewarding right now. It's awesome to see members of the church doing the same thing as you do because I've had quite a few discussions with people who didn't agree with the way I understood the Word of Wisdom. Well it's their choice. :) I hope one day everyone will discover the WofW. I'm still discovering it ;) From Russia,with love.
I have been a vegan for over a year now, and I am now transitioning to completely whole foods, limited processed, plant based diet. It has been such a blessing in my life to live the way I have in the last year and I am ready for the next step. So grateful for the Word of Wisdom and how it turned my life around!
Yeah!! It is a great journey. Thanks for sharing! Jane
Thank you for making this short film. I enjoyed it very much!
Let's all reclaim our health and avoid disease by eating a whole food, plant-based diet.
Thanks, Analili! I agree!! -Jane
For as much as I have learned and as much as I know, with about everything available to me, I still struggle to make healthy choices. I definitely eat to much sugar and most everning, we have chicken or turkey with brown rice and a vegetable. This was a great film and very encouraging. That it's what God wants for me. Thank you!
A must see for every Latter-day Saint!
Thanks, Colleen! I appreciate the thumbs up! +Colleen Simmons
Colleen Simmons do you drink mild drink?
I love D&C Section 89, WFPB for 4 years now!
HOORAH!!
I'm sure my Grandpa (Ken Johnson) is smiling down on us, knowing that some of his health beliefs are becoming more mainstream. I hope to incorporate more of these ideals into my own family's cooking. Well done Jane!
Dr. Kenneth Johnson was a true Word of Wisdom pioneer! I'm so happy to help carry on this message. Thanks Rachel! -Jane +Rachel Williams
I feel the same. Majority members don’t much paying attention about eating meat sparingly. More I learn how beneficial plant based diet is, I get amazed with the word of wisdom. Can’t wait the prophet talk about it more at the conference.
Thank you so much for this video. I was feeling like an extremist when I felt this way. It is so good to see and feel that others have experienced the same revelations.
Glad to hear that. Thanks so much for sharing!
Beautifully done. What a difference WFPB has made in my life. No longer does heredity determine the diseases I will eventually suffer. I can determine my health destiny to a greater degree than ever. Here is to growing old gracefully. : )
Wonderful! Thanks for the kind words and for sharing your experience. -Jane +Maria Farley
Love this film! It turned out so wonderful! I will be sharing this often. Thank you for doing this film. I have been 95% plant based for over 2 months now. It took me about a year of trying and struggling because I am the only one in a house of 7 that eats this way, but I turned that switch and am improving on it daily and my family is becoming more open to it as well.
Awesome, Jennifer!! The longer you do it, the easier and more joyful it becomes. Keep on going! Bless you, Jane +Jennifer Gilbert
Powerful! Incredibly visual! My spirit swelled with the truth of it! Thanks for this beautiful message. I'm sharing with EVERYONE!
Thanks for the kind words!! I appreciate you. I am grateful you plan to share it with others. We need to get the word out about the marvelous, untapped power of the Word of Wisdom! -Jane +rodrigch99
Thank you so much, Jane, and all those who assisted you in this marvelous production. You are a shining light and a great force for good in this sometimes confusing world! Annette Slade
Thanks for the kind words. It is such a joy to share something so marvelous as the Word of Wisdom!! +Annette Slade
Love this. Thank you for helping bridge the gap between the whole food movement and LDS church teachings. This is a significant connection for me, and I hope that many others will come to see this connection as well.
Thanks, Shara. I'm a very small part of the picture, but I'm filled with joy to be that small part! Thanks for all you do! -Jane +Shara Mitchell
Shara Mitchell This is exactly what I think when people want to say the word of wisdom tells us to eat meat. One person went as far as to say God wants us to eat it, so why would you listen to the words of man, and not God? I was thinking of picking out what you want to hear, they see the word, "Sparingly" and that turns into eating meat brrakfast, lunch, and dinner. When it clearly states underneath those times, famine, and excess hunger. But I thought that it was ironic because he is listening to man and not God.
Shannon Mae Swartz do you drink mild drink ie beer?
Shawn Bradford The Word of Wisdom also councils against drinking alcoholic beverages, such as beer
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
Yay!!! It's here! This is life changing work that you're doing Jane. I'm so grateful.
Thanks, Gina!! I'm so happy to play a very small role in all of this! -Jane +Gina Alo
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
7 weeks strong. Enjoying cooking and discovering new tastes, herbs and spices. Loving my life!
Thanks for sharing your experience! It is so much easier to enjoy life when you feel good and are doing the things you feel are right to do for your body. Keep up the good work! -Jane +Linda Lewis
Jane, this is powerful and inspiring! It's so nice to actually know my pen pal a bit better than just a photo. You are wonderful and so is eating according to the word of wisdom. I'm glad to be connected with such a woman as you.
Thanks, Ginger! We are each just doing our part, and our of us, the Lord created a beautiful symphony. You do so much to contribute! :) -Jane +Ginger C
Fantastic.
Thanks, Kane! +Kane Kine
I love this! As a Mormon I've always tried to practice the Word of Wisdom, but my family resisted because they would prefer to eat meat every day. Ms. Birch has done the research and she's given me ammunition & validation to show my family this is the better way to live.
Thanks so much Ilona for the kind words!! I hope you will share with your family. Of course, most of us find that it best to make sure others also know we are not going to change them. They are free to choose for themselves, and we'll support them in whatever they choose! +ilona adams
Thank you so much for this video! It speaks truth and is exactly what the spirit has testified to me over the past 10 years as I have studied, fasted, and prayed to know the true meaning of the word of wisdom! I have been blessed with health and strength and insights as I have followed these teachings. It's so sad to see that there are still so many members that do not understand these things. A few months ago in Sunday School we had a lesson on the Word of Wisdom. One class member raised his hand and said that those who choose not to eat meat are sinners and the teacher agreed with him! So sad! Thanks again for sharing this message. It speaks truth and is done is a positive loving way.
Thanks so much for sharing. Yes, this is an amazing message that can bring great joy. I understand why others don't see it the same way as that is what I did for most of my life. I'm grateful more and more Mormons are finding the "hidden treasures" in the Word of Wisdom. I'm glad we can all be part of sharing this great message!
love this and amen to all of the above!
Thanks for your enthusiasm! -Jane +Rosanne Orgill
Wow, this is an awe-inspiring video! Beautiful food, very spiritually uplifting, and clear message. I loved how it was said that there's no way "you" enjoy "your" food as much as I enjoy my food. I SERIOUSLY enjoy my food. This lifestyle gives me so much joy. I have a strong testimony of the Word of Wisdom and the blessings obtained from living it.
Thanks, Jessica. That is also one of my favorite parts. I love the food, and I feel so grateful to learn that the wholesome food the Lord has ordained is also pleasing to the eye and to the tongue! +Jessica Knutson
J. D. I felt the same way when I became vegan and started shopping at the Farmer's Market. There was just such a beautiful array of foods and I feel so thankful and love it. I never felt this way about food before.
Sevey do you drink mild drink?
Very well done, Jane! I like that it's in simple words and with a clear message. We will get it done in Czech Language for Czech and Slovak LDS.
Thanks, Olga! I was send you the transcript so you can do some translation as you have time!! +Olga Campora
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from
I watch this video daily.
So happy to hear it is meaningful to you!! -Jane
Thank you for all those who contributed to this inspirational film. This way of life has blessed my life!
Thanks, Sandi, for the kind words. I am glad this has been such a positive experience for you. If people only knew how great it can be... -Jane +Sandi Hemming
My wife and I have been eating whole foods/ plant based for the past 2 months. I have lost about 20 pounds and feel fantastic. The Word of Wisdom is inspired!
Yes, it is inspired! And you are being blessed by following it more closely. I love the promises in D&C 89!!
This video means so much to me. It makes me happy, like eating whole foods plant based has for the last almost-five years. After making the change in my diet, I easily ran my first half-marathon -- "ye shall run and not be weary" the Word of Wisdom says. I don't get colds or anything anymore, and the few times my kids or I have had a slight runny nose or upset stomach it has honestly only lasted for about a day. (One time I believe my diarrhea was because of having *processed* vegan food the night before. I LOVE eating more plant foods and don't miss meat, dairy, eggs, or cravings for sugary desserts. I don't cook with oil either (It's not a whole food) and don't desire it. One of my favorite foods is plain steamed vegetables, like cauliflower, mushrooms, yellow squash, kale, and raw seeds together! And my lab results are very good. Because of this diet I also now have a great love for more of a variety of people and for the beauty of animals, who I don't want to hurt if I don't need to. I don't need to, because I have access to plenty of natural, non-animal foods.
Beautiful comment! I couldn't agree more. Thanks so very much for sharing. -Jane +littlemanda27
Beautifully done. thank you for putting this together.
Thanks, Elizabeth!
Well done Jane. I wholeheartedly concur.
And thank YOU for all you do for the plant-based community through your Bring Joy blog!! +Janae Wise
I love this Jane!! Thanks for your time and effort (and everyone who helped you) in spreading the good news of the Word of Wisdom!
Thanks for the kind words, Tammy. Thanks for doing your part to spread the good news! +Tammy Morse
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
Thank you for this video. I really needed it. I grew up mormon and the one thing I've grown to love is the word of wisdom. Our bodies are temples. I wish more LDS people supported this message of a whole food plant based diet. I've grown buddhist, but this definitely brings me back to the testimony I've always had. Thanks :)
Hi Adam! I love Buddhism as well! Studying Buddhism has changed my life. I think it is very compatible with Mormonism. What a wonderful world! Thanks for sharing your comments!! -Jane
Whole food plant based eating works. To all those who are really interested in making positive lifestyle changes, I highly recommend it. Radical from the viewpoint of the standard american diet, but not from a reasoned, practical, and scientific viewpoint.
So true!! I so loved all you and your family did for the film. You all came out GREAT. I'm just so happy our lives came together!! -Jane +Shane Jones
+Shane Jones - The Standard American Diet is the S.A.D. Thank you for all of your work. Hopefully people will humble themselves and quit digging our graves with our teeth. :-)
Shane Jones do you drink mild drink?
What is today's standard American diet? I wonder...I live in a different country and I know that it changes through the years. So what is considered popular now?
This film on the Word of Wisdom is fabulous! I'm so happy eating this way, the way the Lord, the Creator of our bodies, has counseled us to eat.
Thanks Karen! +Karen Barnes
This is a beautiful video, thank you so much for the General Authorities messages, that was powerful. I have been seriously studying the Word of Wisdom for the first time in my life just recently, even though I've always had access to it, and it is very eye opening when you really look at the entire message from the Lord. He wants us to benefit from all of His words, not just part of them, and I am really excited to follow the guidelines. I recently read the book "Eat to Live" by Joel Fuhrman and I loved it, it's got some wonderful information and I highly recommend it. Good luck to everyone just starting out on this journey like I am!
Thanks, Jill! You are on a beautiful journey. I have more resources at discoveringthewordofwisdom.com. You can also join the Discovering the Word of Wisdom Support Group on Facebook. -Jane
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from
LOVE this video and LOVE LOVE LOVE this way of eating. It has blessed my family so much. We've been eating this way for 13 years and couldn't be happier. So thankful we figured it out when we did.
Didn't your parents and Vic do a GREAT job?? Your entire family is an inspiration. Thanks for all your support! -Jane +Eliza Hirschi
Love to find out I am not the only plant based one out there ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Jane! The film turned out wonderfully. Eating this way has blessed our family in so many ways.
Thanks, Alanna! And thanks for your contribution. I look forward to featuring your story on discoveringthewordofwisdom.com +Alanna Franklin
Wow! It turned out great, Jane! I especially enjoyed the Johnson's story at the end of the film. Amazing results!
Michelle: You and your family are so awesome in the film. I so enjoy all of your personalities. Thanks for being wiling to put your family out there on the big screen! haha! Your boys will remember this forever, I think. I love you all! -Jane +Michelle Jones
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
Thank you, Jane for introducing me to a whole-food, plant-based way of eating. Though I always tried to follow the Word of Wisdom, I can see now the pieces I was missing. This way of eating over the past year and a half has been a great blessing to me and my family.
Thanks, Cheri! We have all been missing the same pieces. I'm grateful to those who taught me, and I hope you'll share with many others! Thanks for your kind words. Please consider sharing your story on my site: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/share-story/ -Jane +Cheri J. Meiners, M.Ed.
I have watched this video a few times now, just because I love it so much! It feels so wonderful to finally have an inspirational LDS video to share with others that holds the spirit in its words. Thank you SO much for making this, Jane. This can and will help so many people!!
Thanks for the kind words! I'm so grateful for the wonderful response to this film. It has been a blessing to be involved in it! My genius was in hiring a great director!! +Lady Luna
Awesome thanks so much for all your work!! Now I have something succinct that I can share when someone asks questions. I would only add that there is a 3rd type of commercial, the ones from the lawyers advertising suing the pharmaceutical companies!!
I love it. Thank you so much for putting this together and thank you to everyone involved! It's such an uplifting and inspiring film. All of the delicious looking plant-based food in the clips makes me wonder why more people don't immediately want to eat this way!
Thanks so much Leilani. The food really is delicious. I love that hidden treasure in the Word of Wisdom! -Jane
+Leilani Gomez
I've been following this for a couple of months now and am seeing benefits already. I won't lie, it's a struggle sometimes. But there is a lot of support out there and most of the recipes I've tried are delicious and very satisfying. I do feel that I am pleasing Heavenly Father. I have more energy and a lot of hope for a better physical future, one in which I am stronger and more able to serve Him. When i read in Doctine and Covenants 89:4, "Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation--", I think of all the unhealthy processes and ingredients in the common western diet today. I am 58 years old, diabetic, 170 lbs. overweight with heart disease and arthritis. Jane, this couldn't have come along at a better time in my life. The diet I was raised on and have eaten all my life has almost killed me. Now I have hope!
You go, girl! Thanks so much for sharing. I know you will get stronger and more able to do this the longer you keep it at it. It can be challenging at first, but everything of value in life takes some work. The Lord is there to help us, and there are so many treasures in the process. Please keep me posted, friend! -Jane +Diana Knopf
I will, thank you!
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love ❤and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from?
Love this! Thanks for putting this together. :)
+Ashley Kuhn Thanks so much, Ashley!
Our society has come to center meals around meat and cheese, not whole grains. Once I chose to eat meat only if there is nothing else to eat (which hasn't happened yet), and avoid dairy, eggs, and refined foods like added oil and sugar, I experienced greater health. Heart attack proof sounds like something worth being, if it's as simple as eating familiar, simple, delicious meals prepared from unrefined whole grains, beans, potatoes, fruit, and vegetables. It's easier than you think.
Great points, Doug. It makes so much sense to eat better so we can feel better in every way! +Doug Hawkes
Love this!!!
Hello I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness prosperity, love and peace all over the world. I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Engineer Graham Bolt from Nashville Tennessee, where are you from
*Как я люблю нашего Господа и Слово Мудрости это по истине драгоценные сокровища знаний и мудрости, а ещё огромных благословений.*
*Посмотрев это видео я ещё больше получил вдохновения, что живу правильно, кушая только растительную пищу.*
*И ещё я благодарен всем братьям и сёстрам **#LDS** по всему миру за то, что вас так много и вы глубоко понимаете этот закон Слова Мудрости пришедший к нам от Бога через пророка Джозефа Смита.*
*Я очень рад от того, что наши сердца открыты для добра, любви, мира и глубокого понимания Слова Божьего.*
*Я прославляю нашего Отца Небесного и Его Сына Иисуса Христа аминь.*
Thanks so much for sharing your testimony!! Jane
A great way to live that my daughter and son-in-law embrace in their family. I am not as good at this!
Thanks for the comment. Be patient with yourself. Small changes add up to big ones over time! I wish you the very best! -Jane +Naomi Burnside
I love your video so much, I have been following a whole foods plant based diet for a few years now and never felt better, following a period of severe illness it is wonderful do discover that food is my medicine. I am 62 years old and I feel younger and healthier than I did 10 years ago. I am coming to understand more fully the great blessings of the word of wisdom. So many of my Lds and non Lds friends do not see this, especially Lds who only seem to focus on the three negatives avoiding alcohol, tobacco and team and coffee. It am so thankful for the word of wisdom, the directions from the Lord and he great blessings received from following its principles
That is so wonderful to hear!! Thanks for sharing your experience. There are many Latter-day Saints (and non-LDS) who are also following this wisdom and receiving great blessings. Please consider sharing your full story with all of us: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/share-story/
I feel torn. I have been doing the Keto diet for the last six months and for the first time in my life I am actually close to a healthy weight... that being said, I have begun to feel spiritual unrest for my diet. I was reading in D&C 89 and I felt the spirit tell me I needed to change.
It seems like a hard change that goes against every way I am eating now, but I have faith it can heal.
It is hard for me to accept wheat as good for me because I have a really bad allergy to it, but I want to learn more! I am considering purchasing your book when it can get some more money :)
I hear you! The good news it, you can lose just as much weight and keep it off doing whole food, plant-based. I believe it is ultimately easier and more satisfying (not to mention healthier). However, no need to consume wheat if you have an allergy to it. (Though some found they were able to include wheat after getting healthier). If you live close to Provo, I can loan you a book. You can also find many of my writings free here: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/meridian/ Best wishes!!
Discovering the Word of Wisdom I will check out the website! Thank you!
Great job Jane. Loved every minute.
Thanks so much for the kind words. I've loved every minute of creating this video and sharing the Word of Wisdom! -Jane
The principles taught here are true!
Amen! Aren't we blessed? +Jeff Sorensen
words of wisdom is so cool, I love all these, no coffee, black tea. drink alcholoic, n cigartes that addicted to ur body!
no drugs! nothing harm your body!
LOVE it! You did a phenomenal job on this. I absolutely believe many will listen!
Thanks so much, Eryn! Please share it with family and friends! +Eryn David
The biochemistry lab my husband is working in at BYU has been study the affects of diet on our cells; on the protein turnover rates and such. After years of collecting data they began to analyze things. At one point his professor read through their findings and said some what jokingly, "hum, so the Word of Wisdom was right."
The more I learn from his research, the more I've embraced a plant heavy, low heat/raw diet. How you cook your food matters as much as what you eat. Stick with raw, poached, boil, steamed, slow cooker meals. If you want to know more, read about Advanced Glycation End Products (A.G.E.s) They are stressing & prematurely aging/killing us on a cellular level.
A beautifully made and thought-provoking presentation. I was intrigued by the comments playing in the background which sounded to me like quotes from Gordon B. Hinckley and possibly Ezra Taft Benson. I would love to study these comments a little more deeply, and in their original context. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Many thanks.
Thanks for the kind words! The quotes from President Benson and President Hinckley are both in the credits. Here they are: Ezra Taft Benson, “In His Steps,” BYU Speeches (March 4,
1979) [speeches.byu.edu/talks/ezra-taft-benson_in-christs-steps/]; Gordon B. Hinckley, “My Testimony,” lds.org (October 2, 1993) [www.lds.org/general-conference/1993/10/my-testimony?lang=eng] +Moomin Mama
Well that's pretty sneaky, hiding references in the credits ;) Sorry I missed them in plain sight. It was really nice of you to take the time to answer my question, thanks for that!
Haha! You are most sincerely welcome. -Jane +Moomin Mama
Great work Jane! Beautiful little film, when does the full documentary come out??!
Great idea, thanks for the kind words! +Jeff Solavei
I agree with a lot of what is said in this short film. However, I wouldn't agree that "staff of life" means the "foundation of our diet". I think that a staff is something that you lean on at certain times, particularly if you have difficult walking. If you are able to walk fine, then you don't need a staff. By the same token, I think grains should be used like a staff, when needed, but not as a foundation.
I would love the recipes used in this video! I eat sprouted rice a lot with other grains.
I found this presentation very uplifting and worthy of further consideration. One comment on whole grains : a person may want to do some research on phytates and how to prepare whole grains by soaking before jumping into major consumption of whole grains. Raw whole grains, seeds, and nuts can contain high levels of phytic acid, which can block the body's absorption of essential minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium. I found out the hard way that I needed to learn to prepare whole grains properly, for instance soaking oats like my grandma used to do instead of just eating them raw like a horse, to avoid some serious low iron/anaemia problems. It seems like we've lost some wisdom about how to use natural foods in our current "instant food" culture. Just my personal experience, sharing in case it is helpful to someone.
Thanks again for your kind words! And thanks for sharing your advice. Raw grains are not a good idea. Most people do fine if they are cooked thoroughly, but soaking is also great, and thanks for the reminder! -Jane +Moomin Mama
Yup, live and learn. I even have to be really careful with not overdoing it on the raw nuts and seeds, which is a pity because I really enjoy them!
+Moomin Mama When was the last time you saw someone eating raw whole grains as a regular part of their diet?
+Doug Hawkes Hi, I wasn't sure if your question was meant rhetorically, as in "Duh! Who would eat raw grains?!" or if you were genuinely curious :) I'm gonna take a gamble and actually answer. I live in Europe, where we eat muesli. Yes, that's straight up raw rolled oats, with a few raw nuts, seeds, and dried fruits tossed in for texture and variety. People typically eat it cold with some kind of dairy product (buttermilk, yoghurt, milk, etc) although some prefer to add fruit juice, coffee, or hot chocolate. I used to eat my cold, raw, rolled oats in the morning with no sugar, and doused with cold water instead of milk. Just like a horse ;)
Rolled oats have been steamed. Raw would be steel cut oats or fully intact oat groats. Try chewing those raw. I'm not sure but steel cut might also be steamed, but I would think not.
Why can't we open drive-through fast food restaurants with food like this? I would invest every penny I own in a restaurant like this if I had the ability to run a restaurant.
That would be awesome!
I see thousands of these videos telling us it's a great thing to go on an organic whole foods diet for better health BUT not many videos of these same people SHOWING US what to cook or some really good recipes.
Does anyone have experience navigating this change with young children (down to 2 years old) that are extremely picky, and have many food allergies? We cannot have avocado, banana, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, garbanzo beans or sesame in our home due to severe allergies. I want to make this change, but I struggle to see our ability to consistently apply these principles with so many allergies and such an overwhelmingly busy life (4 kids under 9, homeschooling, severe allergies, etc.)
Hi Andrew: You ask a good and important question. What I see is that it is actually easier to avoid allergens when you eat whole foods. When you eat a lot of processed foods, you have to be super careful to read all the ingredients, but when you eat whole foods you can easily choose to just avoid the foods your family can’t eat. Super simple to find recipes that don’t use those foods! It is tough to feed picky kids, for sure! But you are not alone. MANY other families have the same challenge. There is a Facebook support group where people often share ideas about how to feed picky kids. You can ask your questions and get ideas from others. Here is the URL: facebook.com/groups/wordofwisdomprivategroup/. Best wishes!! Jane
Can I get some of those recipes?
I"d love to see a fast food whole food plant base restaurant. is this possible.
Haha! Yes. Interesting thought! +Peter Yorgesen
Ginger's Garden Cafe in Springville, UT!
Великолепно!
+Dmitry Kozlovskiy Спасибо
Please turn volume up
I would LOVE to have the recipe for the salad that is shown at 9:23 in the film. It looks "To Die For" !! Anyone?
Would you tell me which prophet is speaking in the end of this video? He mentioned about Daniel...I wonder where I can find that scripture as well. Thank you.:-)
Hi Grace! The last speaker is President Ezra Taft Benson. All sources are cited in the credits at the end.
Here is a bit of wisdom that I embrace. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Animals and fish are OTHERs. Do not put them in bondage do not kill them to eat. Be kind to all living beings. Plant based eating is also a great way to reduce your personal carbon footprint that in Macro can have great effects on Climate Change.
So well said! Thank you!!
This is great, and we'd like to do this. In fact we've thought about it for a while, but it seems to be much more expensive and time consuming and we are really tight on money. Any suggestions?
Hi Spencer! Glad you want to give this a try! Good news: this diet is much cheaper! Grains are MUCH cheaper than meat. In fact, grains are the cheapest source of calories on the planet. Beans are also very inexpensive. You don't need to buy fancy fruits and veggies, just whatever is least expensive at the local grocery store is so much better than processed foods. When you then add all the saved medical cost and lost productivity, this diet is SUPER cheap! It does take more time. You need to consider whether you'd prefer spending your time chopping veggies or lying sick in bed more often. :) -Jane +Spencer Case
OK, so as far as grains go, what can we buy to eat? We buy oatmeal. Bread is usually pretty processed. Other things like quinoa is kind of expensive. What else is there?
Hi Spencer! The primary grains include barley, buckwheat, oats, rice, rye, wheat, corn, and millet. You might also consider adding starchy vegetables, which play the same dietary role as grains. Check out a list here: www.drmcdougall.com/health/education/free-mcdougall-program/steps-to-recovery/starch-staples/ - Jane
+Spencer Case
+Discovering the Word of Wisdom +Spencer Case We buy oats, organic brown rice, organic frozen corn, and organic carrots from Costco for great prices.
Beans, peas, lentils and other grains are the least expensive of all foodstuffs. Meat and dairy are the most expensive products on your plate. If you can afford hamburger at $4.22 a pound you can certainly afford $1.60 for a pound of lentils. Lentils and vegetables in your spaghetti is wonderful. Replace expensive meat products with beans and rice. This is a wonderful way to live. Reconsider your approach to diet. Healthy living is healthy and much more affordable than you think.
Peace and love ❤️
Hi Jane. I'm trying to steer what I feed my family towards the plant based diet, and I have a question about milk alternatives. Do you use almond, or soy milk ? Or do you consider those too processed? My kids are crazy about cold cereal with milk and I'm trying to wean my 14 month old, but I want to know your take on these alternatives to milk.
Great questions, Rachel. I think all of these non-dairy milks are fine, as long as they don't have a lot of added sugar or other additives. You can also make your own (I make my own soy milk). Experiment and see what you and your kids like the best. You can buy several and do a "blind taste test" with the kids. They'll enjoy that! Getting kids off cow's milk is a very important step toward much better health. +Rachel Williams
+Rachel Williams Abandoning cold cereal and milk was the hardest thing for me (meaning, it was odd for a few days, and I got over it). The alternative dairy-free milks are certainly better than milk, but they (and most cold cereals besides the generic "Shredded Wheat" cereal) are typically pretty processed. They're a good way to go, but if you wanted to jump in all the way, I think the way to do it is just eliminate cold cereal, and enjoy oatmeal. Put milled flax in, cinnamon, chopped or crushed peaches, berries, all kinds of fruit. Try it without any milk. Play around with how you like to cook it, and find the consistency you like. To me, it now tastes like pie. It's delicious. If there's one thing I could eat any time of day, it's my oatmeal, the way I prepare it. You'd be surprised how much your tastes change. You just have to do it, and once you learn to enjoy it in a new way, you find that you enjoy it as much or more than the other. Added sugars are addicting. There's nothing wrong with a small amount of added sugar, but really, why no try to love it without it. I have personally found that I love it, now that I have gotten used to it. Kind of like is said in this video "You can not [possibly] love your [sugary cold cereal] more than I love my [oatmeal]."
Also, enjoy savory breakfasts. Slice potatoes into quarters, and microwave four sliced potatoes for 20-25 minutes, with garlic powder and a pinch of salt on them. Delicious. Bread, rice, fruit. There is so much to enjoy, to replace things we're used to. It's just a matter of not trying to find "equivalent" substitutes for foods we are used to, but rather to find totally new foods that are different but just as satisfying. It's a matter of diving in :)
Take a handful of almonds and a few cups of water, throw them in a Vitamix, blend and there is your milk.
Nothing and no one here is claiming the Word of Wisdom commands to not eat meat, and like often mentioned in the revelation itself we're advised to use judgment and prudence. I think sparingly is a great word, it's not demanding. Obviously, inquire of the Spirit and follow accordingly, whichever it be. God knows our individual needs more than anyone else's interpretations 🙂 Multiple times I've had the revelation to eat more plant-based, but I also had a time while vegetarian that I felt I needed to incorporate fish. It's pretty cool to see some Saints share their personal testimonies of following the word of wisdom and encouraging others, like with other commandments and revelations, to revisit and reflect on it them and evaluate where we're at 🙂 We all know that what our church members struggle with the most is pride and judgment of others, so lets just all hear each other out to understand one another, there's no personal attacks here intended
Beautifully stated! Thanks for sharing.❤️
"During the Kirtland Camp march George A. Smith wrote the following in his journal:
'We passed through Greencastle, and Joseph here directed us to get a supply of dried codfish. He said fish was much healthier for us to eat than meat, and the use of fish in warm weather was not prohibited in the Word of Wisdom. We drove to within 3 miles of Belleville and camped in a patch of wild grape vines. It rained considerable.' "
George A. Smith, Journal, Juvenile Instructor, Writings of Early Latter-day Saints 322 - 23.)
What kind of substantiation is there for vegan diet removing "all risk" for certain diseases? I want to believe! I already do but need proof for friends and family I guess. I've read about essential nutrients that come from meats but can be found in plants... what are those?
Good question! I would not say "all risk," but certainly almost all risk for certain diseases, like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity which are so clearly caused by poor diet. I would recommend reading Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure by Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., MD.
Mark Brand Word of wisdom is not a vegan diet. Meat is eaten sparingly.
I came across this video when I was feeling discouraged by my loved ones because I am trying to eat a plant based diet. I have a few questions that would love to receive answers to. The first is, milk and honey are mentioned in the book of Mormon. I also remember seeing the consumption of butter somewhere in the Bible, why so? Also, the Word of Wisdom does not say anything about eggs, milk, cheese or other animal by products, does that mean it falls under the same rule as how to use the flesh of animals and fowls of the air? Thank you!
These are all great questions! Remember: The Bible also mentions wine. In fact, all the prophets and even Jesus drank wine. That does not mean we should drink wine today. The Word of Wisdom was given for our day. In it, the Lord tells us what He ordained for our use. I noticed that He does not ordain dairy or eggs for our use. Is there a reason for that? Here is where our own study and prayer need to go into our understanding. Here are some things I've written that may be helpful to you:
A Land Flowing with “Milk and Honey”: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/about/the-word-of-wisdom/wow-faqs/milk-and-honey/
Dairy and Eggs and the Word of Wisdom: goo.gl/HdZ3Dx
@@Discoveringthewordofwisdom Thank you for your response. I am currently seeking further revelation about this with my husband. Thank you for the link you sent me to read about your personal research. I think the best way to work on this at the moment is like you said Find the science behind it and take it to the lord to receive a confirmation or additional spiritual knowledge. I also really liked how you organized the things the lord said into principles. It makes sense that eggs and dairy fall under the principle of animal meat. thanks again and I will be back to tell you how it worked out. Do you have a blog?
@@schmittyschmit4599 Thanks so much! I do post stories of Latter-days Saints who are adopting a whole food, plant-based diet. It also includes lots of resources: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com. Best wishes for your journey! -Jane Birch
@@schmittyschmit4599 "Young people, learn to use moderation and common sense in matters of health and nutrition, and particularly in medication. Avoid being extreme or fanatical or becoming a faddist.
For example, the Word of Wisdom counsels us to eat meat sparingly (see D&C 89:12). Lest someone become extreme, we are told in another revelation that “whoso forbiddeth to [eat meat] is not ordained of God” (D&C 49:18).1"
From "The Word of Wisdom: The Principle and the Promises" by President Boyd K. Packer
@@schmittyschmit4599 "'During the Kirtland Camp march George A. Smith wrote the following in his journal:
We passed through Greencastle, and Joseph here directed us to get a supply of dried codfish. He said fish was much healthier for us to eat than meat, and the use of fish in warm weather was not prohibited in the Word of Wisdom. We drove to within 3 miles of Belleville and camped in a patch of wild grape vines. It rained considerable.'
George A. Smith, Journal, Juvenile Instructor, Writings of Early Latter-day Saints 322 - 23.)"
I like this film; however it was all filmed in the summer when fresh foods are plentiful. I'd like to see what these people eat in the cold depths of winter. Minnesota has cold weather for more months of the year than warm. Salads and cold grains and legumes are wonderful in warm weather, no question about it, but not very appetizing when it's forty below and gale winds are howling around the eaves. Can we see a "winter" version of this?
Soups, stews, warm dishes made with grains, legumes, and whatever vegetable is available. And remember to eat meat sparingly.
Bananas, apples . . .
Chili, soups, stir-fry, curry, Mexican-inspired dishes, vegan gyros with lentils instead of meat, muffins/breads made with squash, grain cereals like cracked wheat or oatmeal, vegan pizza, popcorn, roasted veggies with marinated tofu. Shepherd's pie made with lentils. Spaghetti with pureed red lentils mixed into the sauce. Baked potatoes.
@@greentree_ I eat more meat in the winter because it helps keep me warm! (And is okay by the WofW.)
@@mycrazyfamilyid Thanks!
I assume I got blocked for asking questions?
Thoughts on video
1)careful teaching anything as doctrine that the 1st Presidency does not
2) love that there is so much emphasis on taking care of one's self.
3) question The Word of Wisdom specifically says eat "meat" sparingly yet nothing is said of milk and eggs in this way it is opinion.
The grans and wheat today has been raised with toxic pesticides. And those are taken into the grain that we eat. So that is why so many people are gluten intolerant. And hav3 more cancer and arthritis
Please....
Anyone here a vegetarian or vegan or considering it?
The people in this film are eating a whole food, plant-based diet, which does not include any animals foods.
@@JaneBirchBYU Ah. Okay. Cool. I'm thinking about it myself.
I am! (vegan for almost 10 years)
@@healthyfruitarianvegan_stories Cool.
One think they did 'wrong' - I mean it is manipulated if the 'use in times of hunger ' is quoted in reference to meat, but it is also written right next to grains, it is written twice, they don't quote that, in promoting an only plant based diet, whcih is just as bad, especially if it is grain based; this is what right after the grain part - 14 All grain is ordained for the use of man and of beasts, to be the staff of life, not only for man but for the beasts of the field, and the fowls of heaven, and all wild animals that run or creep on the earth;15 And these hath God made for the use of man only in times of famine and excess of hunger.
Here are my thoughts on the question: Does the pronoun “these” in D&C 89:15 refer to grains, wild animals, or all animals?
Note the pronoun “these” in D&C 89:15:
14 All grain is ordained for the use of man and of beasts, to be the staff of life, not only for man but for the beasts of the field, and the fowls of heaven, and all wild animals that run or creep on the earth;
15 And these hath God made for the use of man only in times of famine and excess of hunger.
Over the past few decades there has been some controversy about what this pronoun refers to. Interestingly, before that time, there was no ambiguity. For the first hundred years after the Word of Wisdom was revealed, all LDS Church leaders and others who commented on this verse interpreted “these” to refer to the animals in verse 14.
Does “These” Refer to the Grains?
As criticism of grain in our society has became popular, some Latter-day Saints suggested that “these” could refer to the “grains,” which are the subject of the preceding verse. Elder Joseph Fielding Smith refuted this interpretation as early as 1947:
Neither is it the intent of this revelation to include grains and fruits in the restriction placed upon meats, that they should be used only in famine or excess of hunger. The antecedent of “these” in verse 15, may not be clear, but common sense teaches us that it does not refer to grain in the preceding verse.” [Joseph Fielding Smith, Church History and Modern Revelation (n.p.: Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1947-1950)].
In verse 14, God declared grains to be the “staff of life.” The “staff of life” means the staple or foundation of the diet, which is where the bulk of one’s calories come from. Obviously, grains cannot be the staff of life if one uses them only in times of famine and hunger, so of all the possible interpretations, there doesn’t seem to be any scriptural support for this one. I have written more on this topic here: “The Staff of Life.”
Does “These” Refer to Wild Animals?
Some people have suggested that the pronoun “these” refers to just the wild animals. Elder Ezra Taft Benson wrote:
It seems to me that the following should be avoided on the Sabbath: [he includes a long list of activities, among which is] Engaging in sports and hunting “wild animals” which God made for the use of man only “in times of famine and excess of hunger. (See D&C 89:15.) [Ezra Taft Benson, “Keeping the Sabbath Day Holy?” Ensign (May 1971).]
Elder Benson does not say that this verse refers only to the wild animals, but others have made this claim.
Does “These” Refer to the Animals in Verse 14?
I believe the pronoun “these” refers to all the animals mentioned in verse 14. In verse 13, the Lord has already stated that “flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air” should only be used in “times of winter, or of cold, or famine” (D&C 89:12-13). Verse 14 adds “wild animals” to the list of creatures to use only in times of need.
I believe God is telling us that all animals should be used for food only in times of need. Verse 12 refers generally to beasts and fowls. Verse 14 includes beasts and fowls and adds all the wild animals. Together, they simply tell us it is pleasing to God if we reserve the use of animals for times when we can’t get all we need from the glorious plant foods the Lord has provided for us.
Thanks, Karoly! If you are interested, here are my thoughts on “All grain is ordained for the use of man . . . to be the staff of life” (D&C 89:14).
What does “the staff of life mean”?
The “staff of life” means a “staple food.”[1] What is a staple? According to Merriam-Webster, the word staple used as a noun means “the sustaining or principal element.” When used as an adjective, it means “principal, chief” and “used, needed, or enjoyed constantly usually by many individuals.”[2] According to the Oxford English Dictionary, staple means “having the chief place among the articles of . . . consumption.”[3]
According to the Word of Wisdom, the principal or chief element of our diet should be grains. Grains include grasses like wheat and rice, but corn and legumes (like beans, lentils, peas, and other pulses) can also be classified as grains.
Isn’t a Staff a Crutch?
The “staff of life” is an English idiom. An idiom is “an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its separate words but that has a separate meaning of its own” (Merriam-Webster). Some well-meaning Latter-day Saints have attempted to use one of the words in this idiom (“staff”) to interpret the idiom as a whole, thus misunderstanding how an idiom functions in our language. They point out that a staff is a support, a type of crutch, something used only in time of weakness and necessity, and they conclude that grain as the “staff of life” is to be used only as a support, in times of need, and not as a staple food. But as the definition of the word idiom explains, you can’t understand the meaning of an idiom by focusing on the separate words in the idiom, because the idiom as a whole has its own meaning, apart from the separate words. Think of other idioms in our language; they are unintelligible by simply studying the meaning of the individual words:
open a can of worms
strings attached
go postal
pulling your leg
had a cow
It does little good to simply define the individual words; you have to understand the idiom as a whole by studying how it is used.
The idiom “staff of life” is the same. It cannot be understood by simply defining what the word “staff” means and then hypothesizing the meaning of the idiom. We understand the idiom by seeing how it has been used. Scholarly research clearly shows that the idiom “staff of life” has had a well-defined, consistent meaning throughout the long history of the English language. It clearly refers to a “staple food” (Oxford English Dictionary). The word staple means “having the chief place among the articles of . . . consumption” (Oxford English Dictionary). The Oxford English Dictionary illustrates this with examples beginning in 1638, but you can search the phrase “staff of life” on-line and find the same results (be sure to place quote marks around the phrase when you search for it).
When the Lord ordained grain to be the “staff of life,” he declared that grains should hold the chief place among the foods we consume every day. Some people are persuaded that soaking, sprouting or fermenting grains is better, and that may be fine. As long as the bulk of calories are still are coming from grains, then grains are serving as the “staff of life” in the diet.
Again, grains include grasses like wheat and rice, but corn and legumes (like beans, lentils and other pulses) can technically also be classified as grains. Other high-starch foods like roots/tubers (potatoes, cassava, yams and taro) are also staple foods in various parts of the world.
Notes
[1] “staff, n.1” Oxford English Dictionary Online (Oxford University Press, June 2014).
[2] “staple” Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary (2013).
[3] “staple, adj.” Oxford English Dictionary Online.
Sparkling Ices are against the Word of Wisdom. It has tea in it. My bishop has told me that it is against the Word of Wisdom.
There is a line of Sparkling Ice that is iced tea, others are not, but I think it is always wise to heed the counsel of our bishops! +The S.C.Ruffy NERF Herder
If you check every one you wil find they all have green tea extract.
Yes, you are right, interesting. I personally would stay away from drinks like this. Plain water is the best beverage that I know of. Thanks! -Jane +The S.C.Ruffy NERF Herder
Interesting video. My wife follows this approach to the Word of Wisdom to the letter ... has for the past nearly 5 years. Her refined observance of the Word of Wisdom has evolved over several decades, and I've seen her health improve steadily. She was thin and healthy before she gave up meat altogether, but has become more so in the last 5 years.
I certainly notice cultural prejudice against veganism within most LDS circles. Your video content is not exactly what I would call a compromising approach with this incumbent culture. How do you deal with the cultural opposition that you most certainly get from others within the Church?
Thanks for sharing your wife's experience! I receive relatively little criticism (probably because most Mormons never hear about this). I mostly hear from Latter-day Saints who love this lifestyle and have found great joy, freedom, and peace by embracing the Word of Wisdom in this way. You can read their stories here: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com. -Jane
That surprises me. From the place I was born and raised (San Diego) to where I live now (Texas), I have certainly seen this cultural resistance to a life without meat altogether. I have not given up meat ... I was eating a piece of chicken when I watched your video (free range, organic!). But my wife's journey has been fairly long, and I've had a chance to observe very closely the evolution of someone who when we married 38 years ago was a meat eater to now a vegan. She feels resistance from many active members. It permeates our culture. It's reflected on the menu in our temple cafeteria. I am surmising that it's part of our process of sanctification ... in the case of our country, we move from basically subordinating our living of the Word of Wisdom to doctors, to taking control ourselves.
Yes, there is plenty of resistance to this way of eating from Mormons! It is just fortunate that I have not felt a lot of it directed at me personally. Part of it may be my attitude as I take a little bit of resistance as a wonderful opportunity to plant a good seed! Please ask your wife if she might be willing to share her story on my site: discoveringthewordofwisdom.com/share-story/
+Discovering the Word of Wisdom I sure will.
Thanks, friend! It will help inspire others.
How can some who is allergic to grains do the w of w
Wheat for man is a saying not a comandment.
We don't need any grains.
Today's grain is not what it was when the w of w as written
Yes, there are some people allergic to some grains, as some are allergic to other foods as well. No one is required to eat foods they are allergic to. Grains are not the same today and neither is any other food we eat today! God knew the food situation today and declared that "all grain is good" and "wheat for man." God said this counsel is for all saints in the last days. Science also confirms how nutritious grains are. They are truly the staff of life, as God declared. I'm so grateful we have God's counsel on this important topic for our lives today!
Did you know that in the original writings of D&C 89, that there was no comma after “used” when talking about “flesh of beasts” (D&C 89:12-13) and read as followed: “And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine.”
Also, God created us with K-9 teeth for a reason. Human beings are omnivore 💪💯
Which means by continuing revelation a comma was added and necessary for clarification. Nothing and no one here is claiming the Word of Wisdom commands to not eat meat, and like often mentioned in the revelation we're advised to use judgment and prudence. Obviously, inquire of the Spirit and follow accordingly, whichever it be. God knows our individuals needs more than anyone's interpretations 🙂
Changes in the scriptures are made to make them clearer, with no room for doubt. No one would have made a change to the scripture to mean something that it was not intended originally, I don't think that would pass unnoticed by the First Presidency.
I am not here to attack or start a fight, but I do have a sincere concern to share.
The Lord said the Word of Wisdom is " adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints" (D&C 89:3). There is no question that nearly everyone in modern society needs to cut down their meat consumption and learn to love vegetables (as a medical student, I tremble at the health horrors brought on by society's skyrocketing obesity). But is the diet you present adapted to the capacity of all? Or is it rather a luxury for those privileged to have a budget for plenty of produce, time for creative cooking, and/or land for a garden? What can you say to the poor, the inexperienced, those without resources or time or willpower to make dramatic changes?
How I wish organizations like yours, which have such potential to do good, could emphasize balance, prudence, and wisdom as the prophets have, rather than pushing for what I believe is an extreme diet. I fear that many who would benefit greatly from healthier eating are driven away by such extremes: they roll their eyes that such is unreasonable, or go away discouraged that it is unattainable, and do nothing, rather than being motivated to take simple steps that bring great blessings.
Great, questions, Marcus! I think this diet only appears extreme in the context of the terribly unhealthy food environment we find ourselves in. Most people throughout history have eaten a diet that is largely whole food and plant-based diet. Why whole food? They didn't have all the processed foods we have today. Why plant-based? Most people throughout history have been poor. They could not afford the rich, animal food diet of wealthy people. Grains are the cheapest calories on this plant. You may not have done much research on a whole food, plant-based diet, but if you did, you'd find this is a very cheap, affordable diet, adapted to the capacity of the poorest among us. And that is just the food bill! Add in the saved medical costs, and you have a very cost-effective diet.
I know many poor people who are trying this diet. All the information and recipes they need are freely available on the Internet. Don't underestimate the abilities of the poor!
This diet also does not need to be time-consuming. We've gotten used to ultra-convenience fast food, but that is not what the Lord designed our relationship to food to be. It takes some time to figure out how to fix new foods, but soon it becomes very doable.
I invite you to do more research into this diet. I think you'll discover that your concerns are unfounded. This diet is affordable, doable, and the rewards are so huge, it is a great joy for people who embrace it!
I'm also happy if people just take some basic simple steps to eat better, but it is also great if they want to make a big change to see big results. It is not as hard as it seems. I also don't consider it "extreme." As Dr. McDougall says, “Open-heart surgery is radical. Eating oatmeal and potatoes is not radical.” +Marcus Callister
I can attest that it's cheaper. I'm currently on the level of "lower income" to below the poverty line in income due to building my career and clientele. I've never not been able to afford my diet, which follows this fairly well. On average my groceries cost around 40-50 dollars a week. Which broken down comes to 5-7 dollars per day for meals. Most meals I make take more time to prep but I'm done cooking and usually eating within a tv show. If I'm not, I'm making usually larger meals that can last me throughout the week. You may be able to get that cheap with the dollar menu, but you won't get the amount of diversity, nutrients, and reduction in fat and sugar. Food deserts are real though and this is something that seriously needs to be addressed. Having access to good quality food is needed for those who live in these areas because the cost of not is drastically higher.
It sounds like your concerns aren't so much with a WFPB diet, but with the obstacles our own society has put up for people wanting to live more healthfully.
Marcus Callister this is the cheapest way of eating I have ever encountered. I keep my main dish costs to about $1 each. I love peas, beans, lentils & rice. Quinoa is a bit pricey but I do include it occasionally. I have never had such a low cost woe in my life. Meat and meat products are the most expensive items on your plate. Saying this is an expensive way to live is saying that the greater portion of the world is eating an expensive diet. Most of the third world countries eat a meatless diet. They don't have the resources to pay for meat and eat nearly no meat or none at all. Most peoples have totally existed on starches and vegetables. I eat the less expensive vegetables and fruit I can find. It makes for some creative grocery trips but I can do it. Two of us eat for about $150 per month. We eat very well. I do not have a garden or the ability to care for one. I encourage all my patients to eat an animal free diet. The ones that comply are the ones that are the least likely. Eliminating meat and dairy is a less expensive way to live. Choose to encourage your patients to eat healthy. Meat is not healthy.
Peace and love ❤️
First of all I want to commend you for the kind and gentle manner in which you expressed your concerns. Thank you!
I am happy to tell you that my grocery bill plummeted with this transition. Not just with eliminating ALL animal products, but the processed foods in general, sodas, chips, cookies, candies, ice cream, take out pizza and other fast food stops that I was oblivious as to how often I had whimsically patronized etc.
I now get rice blends, assorted beans and bean mixes, lentils and their mixes from bulk bins and have gotten herbs and spices this way also. I cook in batches and then freeze in meal sized portions.
Honestly, I spend much less on groceries even when factoring in the fresh produce.
Wishing you the best.💚