Much of the Mongolian way of life was developed to help people survive the harsh winter conditions of the steppe. The Mongolian diet consists of great amounts of fat, meats and dairy products. These hearty meals help the herders who must consume many calories amid freezing temperatures. The Mongolian гэр (or ger, a word that just means “home”), is made to protect a herder’s family from the elements that can also be easily moved.