Epilepsy, Hysteria, and Neurasthenia by Isaac G. Briggs
page 71 of 164 (43%)
page 71 of 164 (43%)
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oft-quoted analogy of the cow is incorrect, for herbivora are able to
digest cellulose; but even cows masticate most laboriously. Meat juices are the most digestion-compelling substances in existence, and a little meat soup, "Oxo" or "Bovril" is an excellent first course. No one needs more than three meals per day, while millions thrive on one or two only, which should be ready at fixed hours; for the stomach when habituated becomes congested and secretes gastric juice at those hours without the impulse of the will, is ready to digest food, and gets that rest between-times which is essential to sound digestion. The man who has snacks between meals, and chocolates and biscuits between snacks can never hope to get well. To eat the largest meal at midday, as is the custom of working-men, is best, provided one can take half an hour's rest afterwards. Drink a pint of tepid water half an hour before every meal. If the stomach be very foul, add a teaspoonful of bicarbonate of soda to the water. The question of alcohol is a vexed one, but Paul's "Take a little wine for thy stomach's sake," is undoubtedly sound advice, though had Paul been trained at a London hospital, he would have added "after meals". Unfortunately, moderation is usually beyond the ability of the neuropath, and consequently he should be forbidden to take alcohol at all. Spirits must be avoided. Moderately strong, freshly made tea or coffee may be consumed in reasonable quantity. |
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