John Harvey Kellogg was born in Tyrone, Michigan, to John Preston Kellogg and Ann Janette Stanley. He was one of 16 children. His family were devout Seventh-day Adventists.

Kellogg was raised within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, deeply influenced by its teachings on health, diet, and lifestyle. This religious background would heavily influence his later work.

Kellogg received his early education in local schools. His father, a broom manufacturer, instilled in him a strong work ethic.

Kellogg attended Battle Creek College, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, where he excelled in his studies and further solidified his commitment to Adventist principles.

Kellogg studies at the Normal School in Ypsilanti, Michigan, acquiring skills needed for teaching.

Kellogg pursued formal medical training at Bellevue Hospital Medical College in New York City. This exposure to mainstream medical practices broadened his perspective while reinforcing his belief in the importance of preventative health measures.