192
The Adventist Home
women while they are bearing children that is taken of animals in the
stable
Appetite Alone Not a Safe Guide—The idea that women, be-
cause of their special condition, may let the appetite run riot is a
mistake based on custom, but not on sound sense. The appetite of
women in this condition may be variable, fitful, and difficult to grat-
ify; and custom allows her to have anything she may fancy, without
consulting reason as to whether such food can supply nutrition for her
body and for the growth of her child. The food should be nutritious,
but should not be of an exciting quality.... If ever there is need of
simplicity of diet and special care as to the quality of food eaten, it is
in this important period.
Women who possess principle, and who are well instructed, will
not depart from simplicity of diet at this time of all others. They will
consider that another life is dependent upon them and will be careful
in all their habits and especially in diet. They should not eat that which
[258]
is innutritious and exciting, simply because it tastes good. There are
too many counselors ready to persuade them to do things which reason
would tell them they ought not to do. Diseased children are born
because of the gratification of appetite by the parents....
If so much food is taken into the stomach that the digestive organs
are compelled to overwork in order to dispose of it and to free the
system from irritating substances, the mother does injustice to herself
and lays the foundation of disease in her offspring. If she chooses to eat
as she pleases and what she may fancy, irrespective of consequences,
she will bear the penalty, but not alone. Her innocent child must suffer
because of her indiscretion
Self-control and Temperance Are Necessary—The mother’s
physical needs should in no case be neglected. Two lives are de-
pending upon her, and her wishes should be tenderly regarded, her
needs generously supplied. But at this time above all others she should
avoid, in diet and in every other line, whatever would lessen physical
or mental strength. By the command of God Himself she is placed
under the most solemn obligation to exercise self-control
6
Ibid., 2:383
.
7
Ibid., 382, 383
.
8
The Ministry of Healing, 373
.