Seventh Conclusion: Jesus was not a teetotaler, despite what some branches of Christianity now claim. Miracles attributed to him involved loaves, fishes, wine. If you don't belive in miracles, there are several historical facts to consider. 1. For most people, refrigeration is a modern invention. Fermentation is a natural event unless deliberately avoided, such as by cooking, drying, pickling, and/or salting foods. Canning was not known in biblical days. Fermentation allowed making of leavened bread and preservation of grain and fruit juices as beer and wine. 2. For most people living in early communities, drinking water could not be counted on to be clean. Not everyone had access to fresh spring water, or un-polluted streams. Therefore, use of beer and diluted wine allowed alcohol to fight microbes.

To my knowledge, Jesus did not spell out recipes for his followers. He certainly would not have forbidden or promoted foods that were not known in his time and area. I don't think he knew about soy foods, caffeinated beverages, high fructose sugar, and more.

Modern Christians, and others, do well to learn from recent health publications on paper and on internet, using healthy skepticism. Things which cause obesity are not healthful. Myths which masquerade as truth (such as "low carb" fad diets), should be evaluated and cast aside. Tobacco and other smoking materials are to be avoided, both through direct use and second hand smoke. Sedentary life styles should be offset by at least moderate exercise, such as daily walking. And nothing to excess -- except for parties.

Historical records seem to show cancers and strokes were formerly less common than today. However, some illnesses were not recognized, such as "colic" which probably covered appendicitis, cancer, and food poisoning. Whereas some people lived long in biblical times (ignore Methuselah), life expectancy was much less than in modern countries so that most died before some diseases could get to them.

Still, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts a lot of emphasis on Good Diet and at least Moderate Exercise as keys to good health and longevity. I don't think Jesus would argue against that.

** Diet with FACTS, not MYTHS. **

Example 3: Pancakes made from whole grain flour. A blend of wheat and other grains, such as corn, rye, soy (a legume) can make a nice texture while providing complete protein. Triticale is a hybrid of wheat and rye, but pre made flour can be hard to find. Use just enough baking powder. Cook on non stick surface with a touch of non stick spray or vegetable oil, no animal fats.

The cereal and pancakes do NOT need sugar or syrup, unless one is truly starved for calories. Those are "bad carbs".

Flavor and nutritional value are enhanced by adding some form of fruits, preferably with no refined sugar or fructose. I like to add sliced banana, raisins, or berries to cereal, mashed banana or unsweetened apple sauce to pancakes, and so forth. For serving more than one person, to justify effort, grated apple gives more character than apple sauce. I often use orange juice instead of milk or water for pancakes.

If these breakfasts don't hold you until lunch, try serving a poached or boiled egg with cereal, or mixing egg into pancakes. They are not a threat to blood cholesterol levels. Also consider a few almonds on side, which provides unsaturated fat to fight hunger, and Omega-3 fatty acids supposed to protect heart.

Be inventive. And don't avoid unrefined carbohydrates.

** Diet with FACTS, not MYTHS. **