How many 'primitive' societies (ie. those who were living a
traditional lifestyle and had little or no contact with the West) were
known to exist in the world in the 1930's? The answer must be from a
reliable and quotable source.

Also, are their any studies in existance which show a negative
association between their 'primitive' diets and disease (ie. that show
that the natives weren't thriving)?

Your question seems reasonable. There must have been several primitive
societies that fit your description plus perhaps 1000 that were
unknown to the accademic world. There might still be 1000 societies
that have had only rare recent contact with the outside world, other
than a simular socity a mile or two away. Gennerally it is thought
that in breading, poor sanitation, certain taboos, customs and medical
care were reasons for short average life expectancy, but I agree, diet
varies widely over the year and deficiencies are likely, especially
during food shortages which typically occur frequently. Sorry I have
no references or credentials.   Neil

Thanks for your comments neilzero-ga. I must admit that my question
does seem relatively simple, although somewhat tricky to answer. I was
hoping that someone with experience in anthropology research would be
able to help me. I imagine that the number of societies with no
contact with the West has been droping each decade, as the world
becomes smaller.
Thanks again, celtman-ga

get a copy of the book 'nutrition and physical degeneration' by weston
a. price. it addresses your subject precisely.

Unfortunately, Prices work has been widely discredited. Thanks anyway. celtman.

Discredited by whom? Please inform.
My experience has been the opposite. What am I missing?