If one gains in flesh the chances are very strong that the case has been wrongly diagnosed, or that the disease, if present, is being overcome.
Milk, when it agrees, should form a large part of the diet. A glass may be taken with meals and two glasses between meals. The milk should be sipped slowly; lime water or carbonated water may be added to aid milk digestion.
Buttermilk, made by means of buttermilk tablets, from milk from which the cream has not been removed, or buttermilk mixed with one-fourth cream, kumyss, or cream and water, if relished, may take the place of milk.
Eggs are also important aids in the diet, especially the yolk, because of the fat and iron it contains. If they disagree they may be taken with a few drops of lemon juice, orange juice, or grape juice, as these partially digest the egg.
The beaten and strained whites are very easily digested, and in that form may be taken in quantity of from six to twelve a day.
Tender, juicy meats, especially beef and mutton, may be taken, also meat juices and beef soups.
Highly seasoned foods should be avoided.
Fresh fish, clams, and oysters are permissible. Cereals, especially the coarse ones, that stimulate the bowel movements, if constipation exists, are valuable; oatmeal, rice, and corn-meal mush are especially good; also Graham or bran bread, and zwieback made with bran. If there is diarrhea bran should not be used.
Easily digested vegetables are of value, especially if cooked in little water so that most of the salts and other nutrients, which are so frequently boiled out of the vegetable, are retained. Baked apples or raw fruits, especially oranges, may be taken the first thing in the morning, or used as a dessert. Grapes, peaches, and other fruits in season may be taken in moderation.
Tea and coffee are best omitted.