90
Counsels on Health
a supply of nourishing food. The extra draft upon the vitality of the
mother must be considered and provided for.
Control of Appetite Important
But, on the other hand, the idea that women, because 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 gratify; 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. Custom says that if she wants flesh meats,
pickles, spiced food, or mince pies, let her have them; appetite alone
is to be consulted. This is a great mistake, and does much harm. The
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harm cannot be estimated. 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
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. The system did not demand the variety of food upon
which the mind dwelt. Because once in the mind it must be in the
stomach, is a great error, which Christian women should reject. Imagi-
nation should not be allowed to control the wants of the system. Those
who allow the taste to rule, will suffer the penalty of transgressing the
laws of their being. And the matter does not end here; their innocent
offspring also will be sufferers....
Pleasant Surroundings Essential
Great care should be exercised to have the surroundings of the
mother pleasant and happy. The husband and father is under special