Project Genesis




Mitzvos (Commandments)

Kosher Laws and Health

Question: Since man has turned his back on God’s original diet for man, Genesis 1:29, the Garden of Eden Diet, man has subjected himself to many serious medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes etc. How can unhealthy foods be considered Kosher while many healthy and organic foods may not be kosher?

Answer: Thank you for your question. I agree with you that we have a Mitzvah (commandment) to take care of our bodies, including healthy diet and exercise. However, the kosher rules have nothing to do with health.

The basic reason for kosher rules is for a person to cultivate the value that “you can’t eat everything.”

Think about it.

Moreover, nowadays, there are many, organic and other health foods that are certified kosher. Therefore, one no longer needs to choose between the two.

Finally, Judaism says a lot about HOW we eat in addition to what we eat. Holy eating means eating with awareness and appreciation, of the food, of the nutrition, of our taste buds, and of the gift every bite is. In other words, Judaism says your mother was right  – slow down and chew your food!

The whole concept of a blessing (Bracha) is a way to slow down and appreciate what we are doing.

If you would like to read more on this topic, try this article or this book

I hope that’s helpful!

Rabbi Seinfeld
http://rabbiseinfeld.blogspot.com

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