The latest fad diet to gain traction among some Christian conservatives is called 'eating biblically,' a concept that involves consuming only foods mentioned in the Bible. This trend, which has seen a resurgence in recent months, is being promoted by influencers who sell digital guides and coaching sessions for hefty prices.
The Rise of Biblical Eating
According to a recent New York Times article, the idea of eating biblically is not new but has gained renewed interest. Christian content creator Kayla Bundy, who now promotes the diet, told the NYT, 'I had never really thought to look to the Bible for a recipe book.' She added that she had a revelation: 'Sin entered into the world through food, and Satan doesn't stop there. Food ... is really like a weapon of how I can fight back.'
Bundy sells a $28 digital guide on biblical eating, while another influencer, Annalies Xaviera, offers a $97 Biblical Eating Reset course and a superfoods coaching session for around $700 a month. These high costs have raised eyebrows, but followers are willing to pay for the promise of spiritual and physical health.
What Does Biblical Eating Entail?
The diet focuses on foods mentioned in the Bible, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, fish, and lean meats. It excludes processed foods, sugar, and many modern staples. While some may find the idea of eating locusts unappealing, the diet is essentially a repackaged version of the Mediterranean diet, which is widely considered healthy.
As Arwa Mahdawi notes in her Guardian column, 'You don't find many ultra-processed foods in the Bible; Jesus wasn't exactly scarfing sausage rolls and chugging energy drinks at the Last Supper, was he?' She points out that biblical eating is a healthier alternative to many modern diets, even if it is promoted by controversial figures.
Broader Context of Unorthodox Wellness Trends
Biblical eating is just one of several odd wellness ideas gaining popularity in the US, many of which are associated with conservative or Maga-adjacent circles. These include anti-vaccine sentiments, testicle tanning to boost testosterone, and the use of beef tallow for skin health. Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also claimed that seed oils are poisoning Americans, further fueling these trends.
Mahdawi humorously contrasts this with Donald Trump's diet, which reportedly includes up to 12 Diet Cokes a day and McDonald's. She jokes about releasing a recipe book called 'Snack Like a Strongman' to cash in on the trend, but her point is clear: fad diets can be lucrative, whether they are based on the Bible or fast food.
Criticism and Skepticism
While biblical eating may seem harmless, critics argue that it can lead to unnecessary guilt or obsession with food. The high cost of guides and courses also raises concerns about exploitation. However, proponents believe it brings them closer to God and improves their health.
Mahdawi concludes that, as far as fad diets go, biblical eating is not the worst idea. It emphasizes whole foods and avoids ultra-processed items, making it similar to the Mediterranean diet. Whether it truly fights Satan or just improves digestion, the trend shows no signs of slowing down.
