Eating too much is unhealthful, because the stomach can properly digest only that amount which is needed to nourish the system. The rest is thrown off undigested, or crowded into parts of the system where it is injurious.
Eating food when too hot is injurious, as weakening the nerves of the teeth and stomach by the stimulus of heat.
Eating highly seasoned food is unhealthful, because it stimulates too much, provokes the appetite too much, and often is indigestible.
Badly cooked food is unhealthful, because it is indigestible, and in other ways injurious.
Excessive fatigue weakens the power of digestion, and in such cases, a meal should be delayed till a little rest is gained.
Bathing should never follow a meal, as it withdraws the blood and nervous vigor demanded for digestion, from the stomach to the skin.
Violent exercise should not follow a full meal, as that also withdraws the blood and nervous energies from the stomach to the muscles.
Water, and other drinks, should never be taken in large quantities, either with, or immediately after a meal, as they dilute the gastric juice, and tend to prevent perfect digestion. But it is proper to drink a moderate quantity of liquid while eating.
Where there is a strong constitution and much exercise in the open air, children and adults may sometimes violate these and all other laws of health, and yet remain strong and well.
But all, and especially those, who have delicate constitutions, and are deprived of fresh air and exercise, will have health and strength increased and prolonged by attending to these rules.