There are thousands of such illy nourished children in our schools, lacking in brain power and readily subject to infection, because of badly combined or poorly prepared food.
The number of calories in such a diet may suffice to sustain life, but the balance is insufficient, the amount inadequate, the tissues are not repaired, the secretions lack some of their necessary ingredients or are scanty, and the functions of the body are not well performed.
Sedentary Occupation
The following diet is for one who has attained full growth and who exercises no more than to walk a few blocks a day. The diet may seem light, but when one is sitting indoor most of the time, and has little outdoor exercise, less waste protein is oxidized and less starch, fat, and sugar are required for heat and energy. If too much carbonaceous food is consumed, one will store up too much and become too large. If more protein is consumed than is oxidized and eliminated one is liable to various derangements of the system.
Every person at sedentary employment should exercise each day without fail, being particular to bring a thorough circulation to the vital organs. He should fully inflate his lungs many times a day and see to it that the air in the room is pure.
In nearly all of the following menus coffee and tea have been omitted because, as before stated, they are not foods but stimulants, and the caffein and thein may overstimulate the nerves and the heart. They sometimes retard digestion. Some other warm drink should be substituted when there is digestive disturbance, or when the digestion is weak. They should never at any time be used strong. They are used simply for their pleasing flavor, or for warmth.
The following diet is suggested for one of sedentary habit who is not exercising and does not use up much mental or physical energy.
DIET I
Breakfast