Why do most Mormons adhere strictly to the beginning of the Word of Wisdom (D&C 89:5-9) but pay little or no attention to the rest of it (D&C 89:12-13)?
When it was first given, the Word of Wisdom was given as advice, and not as commandment. At that time, one was entirely free to disregard it if one wished, and still remain in good standing with the church. In the years since then, the application of the Word of Wisdom has been narrowed; and in this narrowed form, raised to level of a commandment. Now, in order to remain worthy of a Temple Recommend, one is required to abstain from the use of the following: • tobacco • “strong drinks”, meaning alcoholic beverages • “hot drinks”, meaning coffee and tea The only other restriction mentioned in the Word of Wisdom regards the eating of meat. See http://scriptures.lds.org/dc/89/12-13#12 12 Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly; 13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine. It is noticeable that today, Mormon
