Page:The physical training of children (IA 39002011126464.med.yale.edu).pdf/138

126 fine, his blood will put on the same character as the food he is fed with. Moreover, pork might be considered a strong meat, and "strong meat and strong drink can only be taken by strong men."

146. Do you approve of veal for a child?

My objection to pork was, that it was rich and gross; this does not apply to veal; but the objection to it is, that it is more difficult of digestion than either mutton or beef.

147. Do you disapprove of salted and boiled beef for a child?

If beef be much salted it is hard of digestion, and therefore ought not to be given to him; but if it has been but slightly salted, then for a change there will be no objection to a little. There is no necessity in the winter time to salt meat intended for boiling; then, boiled unsalted meat makes a nice change for a child's dinner. Salt, of course, must with the unsalted meat be eaten. 148. But suppose there is nothing on the table that a child may with impunity eat?

He should then have either a grilled mutton-chop, or a lightly boiled egg; indeed, the latter, at any time, makes an excellent change.

149. Are potatoes an unwholesome food for a child?

New ones are; but old potatoes, well cooked and mealy, are the best vegetables he can have. They ought to be well mashed, as I have known lumps of potatoes cause convulsions.

150. Do you approve of any other vegetables for a child?

Occasionally. Either asparagus, or broccoli, or cauliflower, or turnips, or French beans, which latter should be cut up fine, may with advantage be given.

151. Might not a mother be too particular in dieting her child?