414 Our Surroundings 



SUMMARY 



Harmful effects often follow overeating. Toxins are apt to 

 form in the undigested food which may be absorbed into the 

 system and affect it unfavorably. 



Insufficient chewing prevents the thorough mixture of the food 

 with saliva, and eating at irregular hours tends to produce the 

 same result. Eating when fatigued and working vigorously im- 

 mediately after a meal hinder digestion. Rest is desirable. 



The care of the teeth should not be neglected. Decayed 

 places should be filled by a dentist. Tartar should not be allowed 

 to remain on the teeth. 



Attention to excretion of waste from the intestines should 

 never be neglected. Constipation may lead to other serious dis- 

 orders. 



Alcohol irritates the cells of the mouth and stomach and 

 absorbs the moisture from the tissues. It delays the digestive 

 process in the stomach and injures the cells of the liver. 



FACT AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS 



1. Mention bad effects of overeating. 



2. Discuss the relation of rest to digestion. 



3. What bad results follow neglect of the care of the teeth? 



4. Why is the excretion of waste matter necessary? 



5. Mention some causes of constipation. 



6. State the effect of alcoholic drink on the mucous membrane of the 

 mouth. 



7. Is it wise to eat a hearty meal immediately before a difficult exami- 

 nation ? 



8. Why shouldn't we eat the food we need in six meals a day rather than 

 three? 



9. Which part of the process of digestion is entirely under our con- 

 trol? 



10. What habits of eating may "destroy" our appetite? 



11. Suggest some rules to observe for eating immediately after a severe 

 illness. 



12. If we chew starchy food, why do we get a sweet taste? 



13. Why should we not exercise vigorously after eating? 



