As the activity of our existence—and the accommodating powers of the Stomach, &c. diminish—in like degree—must we lessen the quantity—and be careful of the quality of our Food, eat oftener and less at a time—or Indigestion—and the multitude of Disorders of which it is the fruitful parent, will soon destroy us.
The System of Cornaro has been oftener quoted, than understood—most people imagine, it was one of rigid Abstinence and comfortless Self-denial—but this was not the case:—his Code of Longevity consisted in steadily obeying the suggestions of Instinct—and Economizing his Vitality, and living under his income of Health,—carefully regulating his temper—and cultivating cheerful habits.
The following is a Compendium of his plan—in his own words.
He tells us that when Fourscore
“I am used to take in all twelve ounces of solid nourishment, such as Meat, and the yolk of an Egg, &c. and fourteen ounces of drink:—I eat Bread, Soup, New-laid Eggs, Veal, Kid, Mutton, Partridge, Pullets, Pigeons, &c. and some Sea and River Fish.
“I made choice of such Wines and Meats as agreed with my Constitution, and declined all other diet—and proportioned the quantity thereof to the strength of my Stomach, and abridged my Food—as my years increased.
“Every one is the best judge of the food which is most agreeable to his own Stomach,—it is next to impossible, to judge what is best for another;—the Constitutions of men are as different from each other as their complexions.”—p. 36.
“1st. Take care of the quality.
“2dly. Of the quantity—so as to eat and drink nothing that offends the Stomach, nor any more than you can easily digest: your experience ought to be your guide in these two principles when you arrive at Forty: by that time you ought to know that you are in the midst of your life; thanks to the goodness of your Constitution which has carried you so far: but that when you are arrived to this period, you go down the hill apace—and it is necessary for you to change your course of life, especially with regard to the quantity and quality of your diet—because it is on that, the health and length of our days do radically depend. Lastly; if the former part of our lives has been altogether sensual—the latter ought to be rational and regular; order being necessary for the preservation of all things, especially the life of man.—Longevity cannot be attained without continence and sobriety[18].”
“At thirty Man suspects himself a Fool,
Knows it at forty, and reforms his plan.”