Hello,
After a fairly comprehensive study of the basic nutrients considered essential to the proper function of the body, I have come to strongly doubt the importance of fruits and vegetables in a healthy diet. While it is true that these two food groups are universally extolled in our culture, I haven't come across a study that convincingly showed them to be necessary.
My reasons for doubting them are as follows:
1. When asked what nutrients fruits and vegetables contain, people respond to me, "Fiber." But you can get fiber from whole grains -- soluble from wheat bread, insoluble from oats.
2. They then reply, "Antioxidants." But like vitamins, you can get antioxidants in pill form.
3. At last, they mention "phytochemicals." But there are over 100 phytochemicals and their health benefits haven't even been scientifically established -- hence their name.
4. Fruits and vegetables are hard to eat. I find that it occasionally takes me 30 minutes to eat one apple.
5. Fruits and vegetables don't have many calories. Although calories add to weight, they are also the body's primary energy source. The more useful calories you take in, the more work you are able to do.
6. Fruits and vegetables go sour incredibly fast. I can't count the number of times I've had to throw away old bananas, grapes, and strawberries. They just don't keep very long.
7. Arguments in favor of the benefits of fruits and vegetables show hints of sophistry. They include the somewhat condescending reference to "your" fruits and vegetables. In addition, studies I've seen of their benefits aren't fully rigorous.
8. Fruits and vegetables are extraordinarily expensive. It seems to me very likely that the agricultural industry, perhaps along with other groups, would have incentive to profit off these low-calorie foods, for one reason or another. The less polite may deride this as conspiracy theory, but it constitutes a serious objection.
As it stands now, my diet is almost vegan (I abhor the thought of eating meat), and consists of mostly grains: bread, rice, some soy, and seitan as a meat substitute. As supplements, I take vitamins and antioxidants and drink protein drinks. Every now and then, I try to eat a few fruits and vegetables just to be fair.
Although my diet is restricted and certainly not rich in fruits and vegetables, I take the advice of those who recommend them very seriously. It is for that reason that I want a persuasive argument about *why*, in light of the above objections, fruits and vegetables would be a wise decision in my life. I won't accept any arguments that simply appeal to medical authority or popular agreement. Nor will I accept any arguments that merely reassert the bare fact that "I need them."
I cannot promise that I will accept your advice or comply with your requests, but I will let this challenge stand to indicate that I have at least given it conscientious consideration.
Sincerely,
Scott