Modern diseases, seen from a Highland practice. An ecological approach

There is no agreement among scientists on which particular aspects of civilisation are most to blame for the emergence and undoubted increase in Western nations during this century of common degenerative diseases. Duodenal ulcer, coronary thrombosis, hypertension and other degenerations appear to be as common in quiet rural communities as in the cities. The frequency of these conditions in the Scottish Highlands where the tempo of life remains slow would seem to rule out stress or psychological factors as important. Changes in diet are now thought by many scientists to be the most likely cause for the increase in diseases of civilisation. The work of McCarrison, Cleave and Burkitt suggests that of all dietary developments in advanced nations during the last two centuries the refining of carbohydrates is the most damaging. A high intake of sugar tends to displace protective vitamin-rich foods and adds to the fibre depletion of refined white flour, with the inevitable consequences--widespread constipation and the serious complications of that distressing condition. Cleave has published strong evidence incriminating 'over-consumption' from dependence on refined carbohydrates, rather than traditional animal fats, as the main cause of coronary thrombosis. The high mortality and morbidity of degenerative diseases with all the attendant human suffering can truly be termed an ecological disaster. The cause is the failure of the food and drink industry to give overall priority to the needs of human health. Increasing demand from consumers for unprocessed fresh whole food would reverse modern trends and would have far-reaching effects on agriculture and industry.