Physiology of Digestion
87
Avoid Undue Anxiety
173. It is impossible to prescribe by weight the quantity of food
which should be eaten. It is not advisable to follow this process, for
by so doing the mind becomes self-centered. Eating and drinking
become altogether too much a matter of thought.... There are many
who have carried a heavy weight of responsibility as to the quantity and
quality of food best adapted to nourish the system. Some, especially
dyspeptics, have worried so much in regard to their bill of fare that
[109]
they have not taken sufficient food to nourish the system. They have
done great injury to the house they live in, and we fear have spoiled
themselves for this life.—
Letter 142, 1900
174. Some are continually anxious lest their food, however simple
and healthful, may hurt them. To these let me say: Do not think that
your food will injure you; do not think about it at all. Eat according to
your best judgment; and when you have asked the Lord to bless the
food for the strengthening of your body, believe that He hears your
prayer, and be at rest.—
The Ministry of Healing, 321, 1905
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Extremes in Prescribing Exact Number and Quantity of Foods—
317
]
175. Another serious evil is eating at improper times, as after
violent or excessive exercise, when one is much exhausted or heated.
Immediately after eating there is a strong draft upon the nervous
energies; and when mind or body is heavily taxed just before or just
after eating, digestion is hindered. When one is excited, anxious, or
hurried, it is better not to eat until rest or relief is found.
The stomach is closely related to the brain; and when the stomach
is diseased, the nerve power is called from the brain to the aid of the
weakened digestive organs. When these demands are too frequent,
the brain becomes congested. When the brain is constantly taxed,
and there is lack of physical exercise, even plain food should be eaten
sparingly. At mealtime cast off care and anxious thought; do not feel
hurried, but eat slowly and with cheerfulness, with your heart filled
with gratitude to God for all His blessings.—
The Ministry of Healing,
306, 1905