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ON the 10th of July, we celebrated Nikola Tesla's 168th birth anniversary. Known for his remarkable contributions to science and technology, Tesla also had unique views on diet and food that may have played a role in his longevity and overall health. Here's a look at Tesla's food philosophies, eating habits, and how you can incorporate some of his practices into your own life.
Tesla's Quotable Quotes On Food
1. "Lunch is superfluous." – Tesla believed that having two meals a day, breakfast and dinner, was sufficient and beneficial.
2. "I eat meat only at rare intervals, possibly only once or twice a year." – Reflecting his shift towards vegetarianism.
3. "The physical law which divides twenty-four hours into day and night also divides man’s life into two periods." – On his rationale for two meals a day.
4. "I look upon the human body as a machine, and I treat it with the respect which a machine deserves." – Explaining his meticulous approach to diet and health.
5. "The yolk contains iron and vitamins which are good, but also uric acid, which I avoid as much as possible." – Highlighting his selective dietary choices.
Tesla's Food Philosophy
Nikola Tesla's approach to food was highly methodical and rooted in both health and environmental concerns. He transitioned from a meat-based diet to a pescatarian one, and finally to vegetarianism, believing that plant-based foods were superior for physical strength and well-being. Tesla was wary of acidic foods and preferred meals rich in vegetables, fruits, and legumes. He avoided coffee and other stimulants, citing their detrimental effects on health, and believed in consuming milk and egg whites for their nutritional benefits. His philosophy was to treat the body like a finely-tuned machine, requiring precise and careful maintenance.
Eat Like Nikola Tesla
Breakfast (8:00 AM):
1. Fruit: Fresh apples and pears.
2. Porridge: Oats cooked with milk.
3. Drink: Fresh milk.
Dinner (7:00 PM):
1. Vegetable Soup: A hearty soup made from carrots, potatoes, and cabbage.
2. Main Course: Boiled potatoes with a side of steamed spinach and lentils.
3. Dessert: A small serving of stewed prunes.
4. Drink: A pot of coffee (served only for its aroma, not consumed).
In Good Company
Several illustrious personalities shared or emulated Tesla's food philosophies:
1. Albert Einstein: Transitioned to a vegetarian diet later in life, valuing its health benefits.
2. Leo Tolstoy: The Russian author was an advocate of vegetarianism, aligning with Tesla’s views on ethical and health grounds.
3. Thomas Edison: Although not strictly a vegetarian, Edison believed in simple, wholesome food and abstained from alcohol and stimulants, mirroring Tesla's disciplined approach.
What Would Tesla Do?
1. You've been invited to Tesla's home for supper. What's been served?
A) Roast Lamb
B) Boiled Potatoes and Spinach
C) Grilled Chicken
2. Tesla's had a tough afternoon puzzling over a thorny snag in his latest invention. What would he likely have to jumpstart his problem-solving?
A) A cup of coffee for its aroma
B) A glass of whiskey
C) A plate of steak
3. Tesla's been forced to go to a burger restaurant. What sort of patty/filling would he ask for?
A) Beef Patty
B) Fish Patty
C) Vegetable Patty
4. It's a hot summer day and Tesla wants a refreshing drink. What would he likely choose?
A) Iced Coffee
B) Fresh Milk
C) Lemonade
5. Tesla has a guest over who insists on preparing a meal. What main ingredient would Tesla prefer they use?
A) Red Meat
B) Legumes
C) Poultry
Answer Key
1. B) Boiled Potatoes and Spinach
2. A) A cup of coffee for its aroma
3. C) Vegetable Patty
4. B) Fresh Milk
5. B) Legumes
Nikola Tesla's views on diet were as innovative and forward-thinking as his inventions. By focusing on plant-based foods, avoiding stimulants, and maintaining a disciplined approach to eating, he set a unique example that many still find inspiring today. So, the next time you ponder your meal choices, ask yourself, "What would Tesla eat?" It might just lead you to a healthier and more thoughtful diet!
