A BOOK REVIEW ON THE CAUSES OF ILLNESS

 In her book, a nutritionist from Vacaville, California, Christine Andrew has written a book on a subject that could lead to saving may lives, hospital costs, and many illnesses that lead to an early death.  She implies that it is time to go back to the Bible for help.  In a telephone interview she gives help that can be found in relevant ancient writings that can be found in our own Bible.  Our new pope and many other leaders caution moderation in connection with food and drink.  Jewish rules often required between two and five parts of water for one part wine.  Andrew quotes from the Bible in First Timothy 5:23, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and for thine often infirmities.”



    Andrew began researching through the Old and New Testaments of our Christian Bible for references to food and teachings on self-control.  She was raised a Presbyterian and attends church regularly.  Her new diet book for Christians and all others wanting to build health is called, “A Biblical Approach to Health.” She says. “Food isn’t the same as it used to be.  Gluttony, lack of self-control and junk food are the main reasons people are getting sick.  The Bible says to avoid too much rich food since gluttony brings negative consequences.”



    “Ministers can be quick to talk about licentiousness and alcoholism, but do not often talk about food as it relates to health.  Gluttony, lack of self-control and junk food are the main reasons people are getting sick.  The Bible says to deny gluttony since it leads to many illnesses, hospital stays, and early death.  If doughnuts and sweet sodas and undiluted wine (wine was often diluted with water in Rome) are placed before someone who is struggling with alcoholism, you are helping them go astray.  It could be their downfall and you know this, apply the principle of self-control.  A Roman diet consisted of salted bread, dried fruit, eggs, raw milk, cheese, fish, dates, figs and unpasteurized honey.  (At that time salt was in short supply).  Hebrew meals included lamb, poultry and olives, all are considered healthy foods,” Andrew adds.    In the Biblical book of Judges, Samson gave in to his weakness that led to his downfall.  Andrew argues that today’s culture that revels in feasting is ignoring the Bible’s words from Proverbs that says “Do not mix with winebibbers or glutton eaters of (pork was against the rules for some tribes) for the drunkard and glutton will come to poverty. The Biblical Queen Esther fasted for three days for divine favor and delivered her people.  One should always consult a doctor about fasting.