The baked potato and glass of skim milk diet, three times a day one day
a week, which has its devotees, depends upon its low caloric content for
its results. There is no magic in it, no yeast business which reduces.
This is most wholesome, however, for potatoes contain a large amount of
the potassium salts, which tend to counteract the effects of uric acid,
and thus are good for the gouty type.

[Sidenote: _Mono-Diets_]

The beefsteak, the milk, and the fruit diets are also good. One can gain
as well as lose on the milk diet, all depending on number of calories
consumed, and it is an excellent method for both. The beefsteak diet is
beneficial for a short time, but too much protein over a long period has
been shown to be harmful. An exclusive fruit diet is excellent for
reduction.

Low calorie days can be repeated once a week if necessary in order to
keep the stomach in good order. Fruit juice, one-quarter glass, or fresh
fruit, can be substituted for the skim milk, and you may prefer it.

[Sidenote: _But You Do Not Have To_]

You could keep on this for some time, or fast for some time, and
probably be much benefited. I fasted five days once, or rather
fruit-juiced five days. I lost about ten pounds, I think, and my heart,
which had begun to carry on, was relieved.

[Sidenote: _Sob Stuff_]