The kosher laws were not made for physical health reasons, but it comes as no surprise that what's good for the soul is good for the body as well. In fact, there's a cornucopia of healthy ways to prepare kosher dishes. Let's learn a little about staying healthy while keeping kosher.

This is the symbol for the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations. Some common foods that sport this symbol are:

Keeping kosher

"Kosher" comes from the concept of "Kashrut," a body of Jewish laws that deals with foods considered to be proper and correct to eat, how they must be prepared and how they are consumed.

"Keeping kosher is a commandment that God has given to the Jewish people," said Rosalind Deckelboim, a Longview resident and life-long kosher consumer. "Although these dietary laws are beneficial for our health, our motivation is obedience to God and following Jewish tradition."

The laws go something like this: Thumbs up to all fruits and veggies. Kosher meats include beef, lamb, duck, fowl and venison. Pork is a no-no, as are birds of prey. Fish is only acceptable if it has fins and scales, so any scavengers such as lobster and shrimp are taboo. All animals must be free of disease, blemishes and imperfections, and must be killed by a ritual slaughterer (the shochet).

"The shochet is an observant Jew who follows precisely the Biblical laws concerning slaughtering of an animal destined for kosher consumption," Rosalind said. "The death must be immediate and painless, so as not to inflict suffering on the animal. We are very thoughtful to all God's creatures."

Also, meat and dairy can't be consumed at the same time based on the Biblical phrase, "Thou shalt not seethe a kid in its mother's milk," from the book of Deuteronomy. In a strictly kosher home, separate cooking utensils, plates and cutlery ensure that dairy and meat never touch.

Translates to healthy living

"Jewish people don't obey kosher laws because it's healthy, we do it because that's what God wants us to do," Rosalind said.

However, the majority of non-Jewish people who seek kosher foods do so because they perceive these rabbinically overseen products as being safer, healthier and better for you.

Non-vegetarians have given a huge boost to the kosher meat market in the wake of the mad cow and E. Coli scares. Also, like organic meat and poultry, kosher meat and poultry are hormone-free.

The rule of never mixing meat and dairy limits kosher eaters from dining at many restaurants and fast food establishments — no cheeseburgers or lasagna for you! When mixed together, the body can't break down meat and dairy as quickly as it can when they are eaten separately, which can cause higher cholesterol, among other problems.

The feeding and the raising guidelines play a part in the health benefits, as well. Animals raised for non-kosher consumption are often administered growth stimulants and antibiotics. When you eat these meats, you eat the hormones used to "beef up" the products. Kosher animals, on the other hand, are fed well and aren't injected with any hormones or antibiotics. Not only is kosher meat beneficial to your health, but you might also feel better about eating kosher meats knowing the humane treatment the animals receive.

Find your foods

Following a kosher diet isn't difficult if you know what you're looking for. The most difficult part will likely be finding kosher meats around East Texas, but in reality your kitchen probably is stocked full of kosher products already.

"I'm certain that many products in people's kitchens are certified Koser," Rosalind said. "Packaged foods in your fridges and pantry have one of several kosher symbols on the labels."

Look in your fridge and pantry for a symbol on the packaging that contains a "u" with a circle around it. That's kosher! Popular companies distributing kosher cuisine include: Duncan Hines, Nabisco, Post, General Mills and Heinz, just to name a few.

So, if you're non-Jewish but are really interested in keeping kosher, remember Charm's delve into the diet is only a primer. Do your research, look for labels and contact your nearest synagogue for more information!