In a message dated 98-08-28 12:55:21 EDT, James Crocker wrote:

<< Just because mankind
 evolved around a certain diet does not mean that some form of
 supplementation will not provide additional benefits.  If they want to
 lead average length lives, then fine.  If you want to optimize health and
 lifespan then it's probable that some supplementation is in order.>>

In a similar vein, Ian Billinghurst, DVM, wrote in his book "Give Your Dog a
Bone," which advocates a BARF (Bones And Raw Food) diet for dogs:

from p. 306:

"When people express the desire to return their dog to nature, they are
wanting to feed it its primitive diet.  What they are actually talking about
is feeding it to promote maximum health and immunity against disease.  This is
internal protection.  . . .

There is, however, something unnatural which can be done for our dogs which
will also help prolong their lives, and keep them free from disease.  We can
supply unnatural internal protection.  Extra nutrients in a concentration
possibly greater than is found in nature, and much much higher than is found
in processed foods.  . . .

This type of nutrient provides internal protection for your dog.  Anti-
oxidants slow down the processes of deterioration and destruction caused by
random aging."

Dr. Billinghurst then goes on to recommend types and levels of vitamins.
Prior to the above discussion, Dr. B., like James, writes about nature's plan
of having an organism live long enough to reproduce.  Isn't it considered true
that an organism's only true purpose is to pass on its genes?  In that case,
our desiring a longer life for either ourselves or our animals isn't in
nature's master plan.

Cathy Draut
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