Were We Born Omnivores?
There has been recent debate going on via my local newspaper about the vegetarian/vegan diet that has got me all in a twitter, even prompting yours truly to get in on it. Among many arguments, one is that humans were born omnivores, others say, humans were never meant to chew and digest meat, therefore, we chose to be omnivores. In doing some research on it, finding a definitive answer proved a lot harder than I anticipated.
I found sites from one end of the spectrum to the other, but it was pretty clear: Meat eaters said we were born omnivores (one person even said, “If we weren’t supposed to eat meat, then why does it taste so good)? and it was the vegetarians that said we were born with teeth meant for grinding grain and plants. Meat eating bloggers claimed that our teeth and digestive tracks were designed for eating meat, however, a source for their “facts” was never listed. Some vegetarian bloggers claimed the opposite, and also, not listing a source. I found articles by doctors on both sides of the issues, scientists on both sides.
Then God entered the picture with people saying, “God created animals for us to survive.” This is where I threw my hands up and quit researching.
So is there a clear answer? I think it’s become a playground argument where someone wants so badly to be right and say, “Ha! You’re not supposed to be doing that! I told you so!”
I tend to say that it doesn’t matter. Whether we were born that way or not, it doesn’t change the fact that animal products are tied to diseases, illnesses and other health issues–and I think that’s a hard fact for some meat eaters to digest.
Body Building—The Vegan Way
Many people (vegans and non-vegans alike) are often concerned about consuming enough protein. Well, that’s due to lack of education regarding this much needed polypeptide. Be sure to read the Protein Page and check out Vegan Body Building where “animal protein” are dirty words.
Yes…this guy is a vegan! Check this out on Environmental Graffiti.
Heart attacks… God’s revenge for eating his little animal friends.
-Author Unknown
the picture of that body builder is… interesting. i can’t believe he is vegan! love it. i share your frustration in that about trying to have a discussion backed up with facts. great post!
~wendy
Thanks, Wendy!
Well Said 🙂 Thanks for the post!
I don’t believe we were ‘made’ to eat either extremes based on teeth formation. But in any case, it is clear, no matter which side of the fence you are on, that what you eat is a choice, not a pre-determined fate.
Thanks for the write up.
I love the quote at the end of your post!
Thanks! I agree, I don’t believe we were made any particular way to eat, but rather choose.