Food and Iis Uses 5

of disease, and for growth promotion. They are of comparatively
recent discovery, and four have been studied and are called:
Vitamins A, B, C and D. They are found mainly in milk and
milk products, fresh fruits and leafy vegetables, and so these are
known as “protective foods’ and should be included in the
day’s meals.

6. Water—This is more necessary than food. A person can
exist several weeks without food, but only a few days without
water. From 4 to 6 glasses daily should be taken.

The body, or human machine, is often likened to an auto-
mobile. The carbohydrates and fats are the fuels which give the
machine heat and energy, and make it go. The proteins repair
the body and build up new parts, just as a car has to be repaired
and new parts bought. The mineral matter and water lubricate

the machinery, as oil lubricates the car. Vitamins are needed —

for growth and normal development.

The fuel which we consume is also measured, as is the gallon
of gasoline. Our fuel or food gives us heat, as does the coal
burned in the furnace, or the gasoline in the car. The heat
derived from food is measured by calories, and counting one’s
calories is growing in popularity.

Food for Children
The daily diet for children should contain:

(1) A quart of milk, since this is the only food which can
adequately supply calcium, for the proper growth of bones
and teeth. Suggested means of getting this into the menu
is given elsewhere.

(2) Fruit, preferably fresh; oranges are especially valuable for

Vitamin C

(3) Vegetables, especially spinach, tomatoes and cabbage.

(4) Eggs, preferably 1 each day, but at least 1 every other day.
(5) Cereals, especially the whole grain, as rolled oats and
cracked wheat. Use package cereals only for variety.

(6) Bread, brown is preferable as it gives more bulk and sup-

plies mineral matter and vitamins.