Page:Linda Hazzard - Fasting for the cure of disease.djvu/57

 acid in composition, seems to satisfy both taste and nutrition at any and all times. Even in a fast, when serious symptoms are present, the broth from the tomato may be given for the relief of distress. The preparation of this vegetable may be referred to as a counterpart of that of the others, and it is here described. Two pounds of tomatoes are stewed with about two cups of water. The boiling should continue for approximately fifteen or twenty minutes, and the broth should be slightly seasoned, then strained so that no large solid particles enter the stomach. One cup of this product served hot often answers as a means of complete relief from pain, and it is the ideal food upon which to break a fast as well.

The drinking of water during a fast is not needful unless thirst is indicated. When the latter sensation makes demand, only sufficient water to satisfy it should be taken. The forcing of water upon the body when no desire exists taxes organs already burdened. Water should not be thrown into the stomach in gulps. It should be sipped, especially when fasting, for it then causes no shock to the system. Thirst is not always evident in a fast, since, when properly conducted, water