Bible-Based Diets

Bible diets are a subgenre of the billion-dollar diet industry that combines biblical scripture, asceticism, and the eating habits of biblical role models to advocate for healthy bodies. Ranging from vegetarian (or fruitarian) diets of Adam and Eve to the whole foods diet of Jesus Christ, the industry provides a structure for a variety of food interests. Most of the industries’ authors and subsequently its adherents are white, female, evangelical Christians. Recently, African American authors have written a few books supporting a biblical approach to eating as well. By using food as evidence of self-control, faith-based diets create a juncture between body and spirit. This entry examines the Bible-based diet and health culture.