THE MANITOBA HEALTH COOK BOOK

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Chapter XVII... INVALID COOKERY

Into most homes there comes times when on account of the
illness of some member there is need to give special care to the
preparation of food having regard to the digestive need of persons
so conditioned. For varying conditions of health physicians pre-
scribe special diets. Certain appetites are fickle and need to be
encouraged and strengthened by foods of attractive and appetizing
quality. Certain digestive systems are weak or defective in the
production of the ordinary digestive juices and require foods of
easy digestibility. With intelligent care and judgment and above
all careful adherence to the physician's directions much may be
done to promote the return to health. In undertaking her duties in
this sphere the housewife should always remember for her reassur-
ance that Nature is on the side of health. There is an inner urge,
always operative in the direction of overcoming unhealthful condi-
tions and restoration to normal health and strength. What the
housewife may do is to so assist in the matter of natural and easily
assimilable foods so that this urge may operate most freely and
effectively. The foods suggested in this chapter are offered in the
hope that they may assist each housewife in meeting these important
and appealing duties.

Remember that outward conditions and inward mentality have
close relationship to digestion. If a child is frightened, apprehen-
sive, angry or disappointed, appetite may be seriously affected. The
emotionally disturbed child must be handled carefully. Make the
outward conditions the best possible, the table neat, the food in
attractive form, the mental atmosphere tranquil, cheerful, buoyani.
Cheerful and interesting conversation is of inestimable value.

If a child is found indifferent to food, ill, tired or upset, it is
often wise to allow him to miss a meal or to eat very lightly until he
feels all right again. A glass of milk and a good sleep may be all
that is needed. Train the child in habits or regularity avoiding
tense emotional strains, late hours and lack of sleep. Endeavor
by reasonable variety to provide the necessary tissue forming and
energy providing elements of nutrition and encourage a wholesome
satisfaction in being healthy and vigorous and fit.

Beef Tea

Take 1% lb. steak. Wipe carefully, remove fat and cut in
small cubes. Place in a glass fruit jar with | cup of cold water.
Let stand for 15 minutes. Cover and place on a rack in a kettle;
surround with cold water and heat slowly to 150 deg. F. Hold this
temperature for 2 hrs. Strain, remove fat and season. Heat again
over hot water to 130 deg. F. and serve.

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