DIGESTION AND ABSORPTION OF NUTRIENTS 103 



large intestine regularly each day. If this is not done, 

 serious disturbances of the health are sure to follow. By 

 constipation is meant the abnormal retention of waste matter 

 in the intestine. " The causes of constipation are imperfect 

 digestion (due to deficient secretion in the alimentary canal, 

 inaction of the liver, or insufficient contraction of the muscu- 

 lar fibers of the intestines), insufficient exercise, the use of 

 alcohol or drugs, or improper food." ^ 



Constipation may usually be counteracted by liberal drink- 

 ing of water, especially a half hour before breakfast, and by 

 eating food with laxative effect, — for example, ripe fruits 

 (especially figs), green vegetables (especially salads with oil), 

 and breads made of the coarser graham and rye flours. 



Dyspepsia, also, is far too common, and is one of the most 

 discouraging diseases to treat, because it shows itself in 

 so many different ways. It is far easier to prevent than to 

 cure, for it is usually caused by rapid or irregular eating, by 

 taking indigestible foods, by lack of proper exercise, or by 

 worry ; and for all of these conditions the individual is, in the 

 main, responsible. 



The regulation of diet in time of sickness is a most impor- 

 tant aid to recovery. In certain diseases it is necessary that 

 some kinds of food should be forbidden. Whenever the func- 

 tions of the body are not carried on with their accustomed 

 vigor, the physician prescribes foods that are easily digested 

 — for example, milk,, raw oysters, toasted bread, and soft- 

 boiled eggs. 



146. The use of water as a drink. — " Many people, and 

 especially many women, drink too little water. Water is 

 constantly being lost through the lungs, skin, or kidneys, and 

 this loss is only partially made good by the oxidation of the 



1 From New International Encyclopedia. 



