Why are many Adventists Vegetarian?
The diet intended for man is outlined in Genesis 1:29: “And God said, ‘See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food’” (NKJV). God intended this diet for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. It is the ideal diet for us today.
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According to Adventist Health Studies, about 50 percent of Seventh-day Adventists today are lacto-ovo- (milk-and-egg-using) vegetarians. Of these, about eight percent stated they practiced veganism (eating no red meat, fish, poultry, dairy or eggs). The Seventh-day Adventist Church, as an organization, believes a vegetarian diet is best for optimal health.
Most Adventists who consume meat do follow the standards God established in the Bible. The books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy outline “natural laws.” Man was permitted to eat meat after the flood. However, He intended only the meat of certain animals to be eaten. Certain animals were considered “clean” for consumption, and others were not. Leviticus 11 lists “clean” and “unclean” animals. Israelites enjoyed longer, healthier lives by following God’s dietary restrictions. These health laws are just as relevant today.
In addition to these dietary practices, Seventh-day Adventists also avoid other substances detrimental to good health. They actively discourage the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. In addition, some avoid consumption of caffeinated beverages. We are told in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s” (NKJV).
In no way should your current diet deter you from visiting your local Seventh-day Adventist Church. Members should exercise love with everyone, avoiding judgment on lifestyle practices. You are invited to worship with us and learn for yourself the plans God has for your life. Let Him impress upon you the diet you should adopt. In all things, allow God to lead.
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