why should I keep the word of wisdom keep the word of wisdom We’re lucky to have the Word of Wisdom—a guide for keeping our bodies healthy and strong. Modern fields of medicine, nutrition, and science seem to back up what the Lord told Joseph Smith almost 200 years ago. Here are a few Word of Wisdom guidelines and the scientific facts behind them: 1. We are told to avoid alcoholic beverages. alcoholic drinks Alcohol can negatively affect the brain, heart, liver, pancreas, and immune system. It can also increase the risk of certain types of cancers. 1 Experts emphasize that “individuals who do not drink alcohol should not start drinking for any reason.” 2 2. We are told to avoid smoking and tobacco use. do not take tobacco Internationally there are 24 million youth ages 13–15 who smoke, and 13 million who use smokeless tobacco. 3 Smoking significantly increases your chances of experiencing heart disease, strokes, and lung cancer. By the way, nicotine is especially harmf...