Food is the fuel that powers our bodies, and the quality of that food has a direct impact on our overall health. However, some might argue that advancements in science and technology have made us healthier than ever before. But is that really the case? Let’s take a closer look at our ancestors from the Victorian era (1850-1870) and their surprising dietary habits that contributed to their overall health and well-being.
Unexpected Findings about Victorian-era Health
Contrary to popular belief, people who lived during the Victorian era actually lived as long as we do today. Analysis of this time period in the UK by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health revealed that life expectancy at age 5 was as good as, or better than, present-day life expectancy. Despite the fact that they consumed nearly twice the amount of calories than we do today, obesity was rare and degenerative diseases were not as prevalent as they are now.
One of the main reasons behind their better health was their diet. People from this era consumed fresh, whole foods that were packed with nutrients, leading to lower rates of illness, disease, and malnutrition.
Balancing Calories and Physical Activity
The average person living during the mid-Victorian era consumed nearly double the calories we consume today. However, the obesity rate was significantly lower due to the fact that their daily activities demanded much more physical labor. Men of the era needed to consume between 280-440 calories per hour in order to keep up with their physically demanding jobs, while women needed to consume between 260-350 calories per hour to maintain their daily activity level.
In addition, they mostly ate fresh foods that were in season, including a variety of fruits and vegetables that were grown organically and were thus richer in nutrients than the produce we consume today.
The Decline of Food Quality
There was quite a dramatic change in food quality in the later years of the Victorian era. Advancements in agriculture led to the importation of less nutritious foods from other countries, which negatively impacted the overall health of the UK population.
Increased access to sugar-filled foods took a toll on the population and, eventually, their teeth. The general health of British citizens declined, and within two generations, many young men who volunteered to join the military were rejected due to malnourishment.
What Can We Learn from Our Ancestors?
It is clear that the quality of the food we eat has a direct impact on our overall health. Thus, it is important for modern-day consumers to prioritize consuming fresh, whole foods that are nutritionally dense.
Based on the dietary habits of the mid-Victorians, we should aim to consume seasonally-appropriate fruits and vegetables, as well as a variety of nuts, seeds, and omega-3 fatty acids to maintain our health. And, most importantly, we should strive to engage in physical activities that balance our daily caloric intake.
It’s also worth noting that the prevalence of degenerative diseases during the mid-Victorian era was significantly lower than what it is today. This could be due, in part, to the fact that people at that time held a more holistic and integrative approach towards their health, focusing on the quality of the foods they consumed.
In Conclusion
Our ancestors from the Victorian era have taught us that the secret to optimal health lies in the quality and variety of the foods we consume, combined with adequate physical activity. Instead of relying on processed and preserved foods, we should aim to include fresh, nutrient-dense meals in our everyday lives.
By enriching our diets with high-quality, nourishing ingredients, we can improve our overall well-being and live a healthier life, just like our Victorian counterparts.
