The Health Benefits of the Word of Wisdom & Fasting

Many people, if asked what they know about members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or Mormons, would refer to their abstention from alcohol, tobacco, tea and coffee. While other religions also observe dietary rules, the LDS church’s health practices are particularly well known but less well understood.

In 1833, Joseph Smith, the first president of the church, received a revelation known as the Word of Wisdom, which contains the principles of the church’s health code.

The revelation encourages eating grains, fruits, vegetables and herbs, and limiting meat consumption. It also prohibits tobacco, alcohol, harmful drugs, tea and coffee.

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