The Craziest Diet Trends from Ancient History

The Roman Black Banquet Featured Jellyfish

The ancient Romans were known for their extravagant feasts, and one of the most unusual was the infamous “black banquet” hosted by Emperor Vitellius in the 1st century AD. This banquet was characterized by its strange and exotic dishes, including jellyfish, roast ostrich, and flamingo tongue. The color black was also a dominant theme, with many dishes being colored with squid ink or blackened with spices. The banquet was seen as a sign of excess and decadence, and was heavily criticized by the Roman elite. Despite this, it became a symbol of the extravagance and opulence of the Roman Empire.

Fermented Foods Were an Integral Part of Ancient Korean Diets

The Korean diet also included a variety of fermented foods, such as kimchi, which is made from cabbage and spicy chili peppers. Other fermented dishes included soybean paste, soy sauce, and rice wine. Fermented foods have been shown to have numerous health benefits. They are rich in beneficial bacteria and can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even reduce the risk of certain diseases. The Korean diet was also influenced by Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of moderation and balance in all aspects of life, including diet. The Korean diet was based on the principles of yin and yang. This principle focused on balancing the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.