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By Laura Crane
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In exploring the views of different religions toward health, well-being, Western medicine, and death, we interviewed a variety of religious spokespersons. Although each religion has its own general guidelines, we found that there are frequently individual differences in interpretation and adherence.

If you have questions or opinions that you'd like to share with us, please email our editorial staff.

The following answers were compiled with information from Mazie Nelson, RN and Health and Temperance Department Head, Toronto.

Q: 
What is the Seventh Day Adventists' philosophy concerning health and well-being?

A: 
From its founding in 1863, the faith has had a strong base in healthcare. Many Seventh Day Adventists choose a career in healthcare, and some visit churches from time to time to give seminars. Good health involves addressing the emotional state, eating and exercise regimens, and spiritual wellbeing. In some cases, the health of the congregation is monitored at the church. For instance, the blood pressures of members may be taken and recorded and, if necessary, visits to doctors are advised.

Q: 
Does the Seventh Day Adventist Church have any dietary restrictions?

A: 
Originally founded on the premises of health and well-being, the Seventh Day Adventist Church promotes the belief that the human body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, it recommends a diet taken from Leviticus, which is vegetarian and avoids alcohol and stimulants such as coffee or tea.

Q: 
Does the Seventh Day Adventist Church have a history of traditional or herbal medicine?

A: 
Many people have turned to herbal medicines, but they usually seek medical advice as well. Each church has a Health and Temperance Department Head who is available for consultation (usually just for assessment).

Q: 
Are there treatments or medications that are refused by the Seventh Day Adventist Church?

A: 
Dietary beliefs carry over into the type of medications that can be taken – Seventh Day Adventists will ask that they not be given certain medications, such as cough syrup with alcohol, insulin that is pork-based, or capsules that may contain animal fats.

Q: 
What is your religion's position on the following?

A: 
Birth Control: Birth control is not something the church encourages – abstinence is the number one method. Sexual relations should occur only within a marriage.

Abortion: For a full view, read the church's guidelines on abortion, but one point noted in these guidelines is "Abortions for reasons of birth control, gender selection, or convenience are not condoned by the Church."

Q: 
What should a healthcare professional know about a Seventh Day Adventists' view of death?

A: 
When a person first finds out that they have a serious health problem, the church members pray for him or her. Some individuals have a very strong faith in God and refuse treatment. The church always recommends medical care, but respects the individual's personal decision. If the patient no longer benefits from treatment, the church members pray for the quality of the patient's life – not just the length of it.

Background on Seventh Day Adventists

Boasting approximately 2,000 baptisms per day, the Seventh Day Adventist Church is currently one of the fastest-growing religions in the world. The Seventh Day Adventists' key beliefs are all based in the Bible, specifically the imminent return of Christ, the celebration of (and strict adherence to) the Sabbath on Saturdays (rather than Sundays, as in most Christian faiths) and a strong emphasis on a healthy lifestyle.

For more information visit the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Watch for additional articles in our Religion and Healthcare series, featuring: Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Mennonites, Mormons, Roman Catholicism, and Sikhism.
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