In the realm of diet and nutrition, there have been numerous fads and trends throughout history. One such dietary regimen with a fascinating and peculiar history is the Kellogg Diet. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocated a diet that aimed not only to improve physical health but also to suppress what he considered "sinful" desires – particularly sexual desire and masturbation. In this blog we will delve into the origins of the Kellogg Diet, its peculiar views on sex, and why it was created.
The Kellogg Diet: A Cornflake Cure for "Sinful" Desires
John Harvey Kellogg, a medical doctor, and a staunch advocate of a vegetarian lifestyle, developed the Kellogg Diet in the late 1800s. Kellogg's views on diet and health were profoundly influenced by his strong religious beliefs and his conviction that the body's well-being was intertwined with moral righteousness. He was particularly concerned about curbing what he perceived as sinful behaviors, such as sexual desire and masturbation.
Anti-Sex and Anti-Masturbation
Kellogg's stance on sexual desire and masturbation was the cause of disease. He believed that these activities were not only unhealthy but also morally wrong. He saw sexual desire as a destructive force that sapped an individual's physical and spiritual vitality. Masturbation, in his view, was the most heinous act in this regard.
To combat these "sinful" behaviors, Kellogg introduced a dietary regimen aimed at suppressing sexual desire. He believed that certain foods had the power to dampen the libido. His nutritional recommendations included a heavy emphasis on plant-based foods, particularly grains, and a strict avoidance of foods he considered stimulating, such as meats, spices, and condiments.
Why He Created the Diet
The creation of the Kellogg Diet can be understood in the context of the prevailing beliefs of the time. In the late 19th century, many medical practitioners held a belief in "vital forces," which were thought to be finite and needed to be conserved. Kellogg's vegetarian diet was a reflection of this belief, as he believed that a diet rich in grains and low in stimulants could preserve the body's vitality and prevent the wasteful expenditure of "vital forces" through sexual activity.
Additionally, Kellogg was the superintendent of the Battle Creek Sanitarium, a wellness spa that promoted his dietary principles. The Sanitarium attracted a wide range of individuals, including those who sought to improve their health, often due to concerns about their sexual habits. Kellogg's dietary regimen was thus instrumental in attracting patients to the Sanitarium.
Grains and Their Effects on Hormones
Now, let's shift our focus to the impact of grains on hormones, particularly how they may inhibit dopamine, testosterone, and GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone).
1. Grains, prolactin and Dopamine
Grains contain a sugar called beta-glucan which increases prolactin. Prolactin a hormone reduces the production of the hormones estrogen and testosterone and the neurotransmitter dopamine. Too much prolactin also can prevent the release of an egg during the menstrual cycle (anovulation) in females. In males, too much prolactin also can lead to decreased sperm production. Bone loss (osteoporosis) consumed. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Studies have suggested that excessive consumption of grains, particularly refined carbohydrates, leads to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, combined with prolactin can inhibit dopamine, testosterone and estrogen. This can result in mood swings, cravings, and overeating, which may indirectly affect sexual desire and overall well-being.
2. Grains and Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone primarily associated with male sexual function, but it is also present in lower quantities in females and plays a role in their health. The relationship between grains and testosterone is indirect. High-carbohydrate diets, particularly those rich in processed grains, can lead to obesity and insulin resistance. These conditions are linked to reduced testosterone levels in men. Therefore, an excess of grains can indirectly impact testosterone by contributing to conditions that lower its production.
Conclusion
The Kellogg Diet, with its peculiar views on sex and health, was a product of its time, influenced by both religious beliefs and prevailing apparent medical philosophies. From this article, I would hope that you take away that grains have a huge impact on motivation, hormone health and overall mental health of an individual.
It is interesting to note the state of health both men and women in general and when looking at some of the trends we are facing in these current times; reproductive health, hormone health, overall health status, body composition and the main message of promoting grains as a must in the diet because when we look at the general trend of we see them all going backwards even with all the information we have.
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