We are omnivores. You only have to look at our teeth to realise that we are omnivores, not carnivores. Our molars are grinders (for vegetation), no tearers (for flesh). We evolved by being hunters and gatherers. However, the gathering part was more routine than the hunting part.

The only true carnivores are the cat and bear families.

Our closest relatives are the chimpanzees. Chimps are mostly vegetarians, with an occasional meat meal, maybe once or twice a month. This means that our daily (sometimes two or three times a day) consumption of meat is far too high. Is it any wonder that human health today sees so much digestive disorders?

Al flesh needs calcium to digest. Nature very neatly provides bones alongside the flesh. However, humans rarely consume bones with meat. To provide the calcium for meat digestion, it is leached from our bones.

Leaching calcium from the bones leads to osteoporosis. Although women suffer more from osteoporosis than men, men are not immune.

• Men have heavier frames, so more calcium can be leached before the effect is felt.
• Women have babies, where calcium can be a drain.
• Men tend to do more weight bearing exercises, which are good for bone health.

My suggestion is to cut back on the flesh and increase the fruit, veggies, nuts and seeds. And try to get as much certified organic food as you can.

Bear in mind that growing children need more protein and calcium than do adults.