“When God first made man upon the earth, he was a different being entirely to what he now is; his body was strong, athletic, robust, and healthy; his days were prolonged upon the earth; he lived nearly 1000 years, his mind was vigorous and active, and his intellectual faculties clear and comprehensive, but he has become degenerated … Man is not now that dignified, noble, majestic, honorable, and being that he was when he first proceeded from the hands of his maker … (the Lord) had appointed the Word of Wisdom as one of the engines to remove the beastly appetites, the murderous disposition, and the vitiated taste of man; to restore his body to health, and vigour, and promote peace between him and the brute creation.”

…Hyrum Smith, Times & Seasons, 6-1-1842, pgs 799-800