104 NUTRITIONAL PHYSIOLOGY 



called upon in normal conditions to absorb much nutriment, 

 it has a marked reserve power to do so. This is often of 

 the greatest value in sickness, when it may be possible 

 to tide over a critical time and to keep up a measure of 

 strength by introducing suitable foods into the colon. 

 Fluid mixtures used in this way must be of low osmotic 

 pressure, a fact which, unfortunately, rules out the sugars 

 excepting in small amounts. Milk and eggs are much em- 

 ployed. Experience has shown that the body makes a 

 partial use of the proteins offered, even though they have 

 not undergone digestion. The results are better when arti- 

 ficial digestion has been brought about in advance. So far 

 as we know there is no flow of efficient digestive secretions 

 in response to the introduction of food through the rectum. 

 It is believed that nutritive enemata may in part at least 

 enter the region of prevailing antiperistalsis, and that this 

 must favor their long retention and better utilization. 

 Stimulants may be given through the large intestine and 

 water to aUay thirst. 



