In general, the more food we eat in its natural state - without additives - and the less it is refined, the healthier it will be for us. Food can affect the mind, and deficiencies of certain elements in the body can promote mental depression.

This quote by Ezra Taft Benson emphasizes the strong connection between diet and overall well-being, particularly highlighting the benefits of eating natural, unprocessed food. When he says, “the more food we eat in its natural state—without additives—and the less it is refined, the healthier it will be,” Benson is advocating for a return to whole foods. He warns against the consumption of heavily processed items, which often lack essential nutrients and may contribute to long-term health issues.

Benson goes further by connecting nutrition not just to physical health, but to mental well-being, stating, “Food can affect the mind, and deficiencies... can promote mental depression.” This suggests that what we eat plays a crucial role in emotional balance and cognitive function. By linking nutritional deficiencies to issues like depression, he underscores the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals for maintaining mental clarity and emotional stability.

The origin of this quote comes from Benson’s teachings as a prominent religious leader and former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. Serving in both spiritual and governmental roles, Benson had a strong interest in the principles of self-reliance, health, and natural living. His views on food often blended spiritual values with practical guidance, encouraging people to treat their bodies as sacred and to make wise dietary choices.

Ultimately, Benson’s quote is a call to view food as medicine—a foundational part of both physical and mental health. He invites us to take a more thoughtful approach to what we eat, recognizing that simple, natural choices can have a powerful impact on how we feel, think, and live. His words remain relevant in today’s world, where convenience often overshadows nutrition, but the need for wholesome eating is greater than ever.