UCG Portland Mini Study
Maintain A Proper Diet
Most mental health professionals understand that some foods are beneficial and some are not, especially if eaten in excess. Some foods enhance our natural tranquilizers while some are natural stimulants. Both can be beneficial, but we need to strive for balance.
Since the Bible is God’s inspired, revealed Word to mankind, it’s the first place we should look for overall guidance in dietary matters. God gave His people guidelines on what they should eat and what they should avoid, and provided them with an environment in which a healthy, balanced diet would come somewhat naturally.
“The ordinary food of the average Hebrew of Bible times was bread, olives, oil, buttermilk and cheese from their flocks; fruits and vegetables from their orchards and gardens; and meat on rare occasions” (Fred Wight, Manners and Customs of the Bible Lands, 1987, p. 43).
The Bible Almanac similarly states: “vegetable products formed a major portion of the diet…When meat was used, it was often for the purpose of serving strangers or honored guests. Grains were an important part of the diet…Fruits and fish were a favorite part of the diet” (James Packer, Merrill Tenny and Will White, editors, 1980, p. 465).
Mental health professionals who emphasize sound nutrition, in connection with sound mental health, recommend balance from all the major food groups. This includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products and protein, as described above.
A person who is suffering from anxiety should limit intake of stimulants—including caffeine. One who is suffering from depression, if he or she chooses to drink alcoholic beverages, should do so in careful moderation.
“A feast is made for laughter; and wine makes merry” (Ecclesiastes 10:19), but alcohol is also a depressor of the central nervous system. Excessive alcohol consumption will drive someone deeper into depression. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1).
- N Hornor
Read more about dealing with fear and depression in our publication:
The Good News Magazine
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