7 Timeless Health Tips from the Rambam (Maimonides)

The Rambam (Maimonides), one of the greatest Jewish sages and physicians of all time, offered not only guidance in Jewish law and philosophy but also enduring advice for healthy living. His teachings on physical well-being remain surprisingly relevant, and powerfully insightful, even today.

Movement, Moderation, and Digestion: The Foundations of Wellness

According to the Rambam, regular exercise and light eating are the cornerstones of good health. "As long as a person engages in physical activity and does not eat to fullness, and his bowels function properly," he writes, "no illness will befall him, and his strength will be preserved, even if he eats unhealthy foods." On the other hand, someone who is sedentary, constipated, or delays relieving themselves will suffer constant pain and fatigue, even if they eat well and follow medical advice.

The Rambam strongly warns against overeating, calling gluttony "like poison to the body" and the root cause of most illnesses. He advises eating only when genuinely hungry, drinking only when thirsty, and never delaying bathroom needs, not even for a moment.

Eat Less, Sleep Later, and Respect the Body’s Rhythms

Healthy habits extend beyond diet. The Rambam emphasizes the importance of timing and restraint:

• A person should never eat until their stomach is full. Instead, they should stop eating when about a quarter of their hunger remains.

• After a meal, one should wait at least three to four hours before going to sleep.

These principles reflect the Rambam's holistic understanding of the body as a finely tuned system that requires care, patience, and discipline.

Wisdom Beyond Food: Balance and Generosity

The Rambam also shares advice on financial and emotional wellbeing. He teaches:

“A person should always spend less than they can afford on food, dress according to what they can afford, and honor their spouse and children with more than they can afford.”

This wise counsel promotes a life of balance, avoiding wastefulness in private indulgence while being generous and respectful at home.

Ancient Wisdom for Modern Lives

The Rambam’s insights offer a timeless reminder that caring for the body is a spiritual responsibility, no less important than caring for the soul. His teachings continue to inspire healthier, more balanced living centuries later.