Euell Gibbons, an American forager, food writer, healthy-food advocate, and outdoorsman, who promoted wild foods throughout his life, can be termed “the father of healthy eating.”Gibbons had one of the most exciting, yet, difficult childhoods. Born in the Red River Valley area of Texas, Gibbons moved frequently with his father, mother, and three siblings, looking for a place to call home. As a child, he often had to forage for food to provide for his family when his father was away looking for work. After leaving home at 15, he spent his youth drifting from one state to another, doing all sorts of work. However, he remained in touch with nature constantly. It was in the 1960s that he embarked on a significant literary career, beginning with his famous book ‘Stalking the Wild Asparagus’ (1962). His books, magazine columns, and the eventual fame on TV, made him the foremost authority on healthy eating and foraging. His knowledge and work continues to influence generations after him.
