Of course tbe fi^equency of meals and quantity eaten
at each meal, will necessarily have reference to other
circumstances. Those of vigorous constitution^ who
are addicted to laborious pursuits, may require three
good xneaia a day; while for those of sedentary
eecupationfl^ two moderate repasts will sufficew

224. The following simple rules are wortby of
attention. First, remember that digestion, with
most people, takes from three to five hours fov eom-
pletioQ ; an4 it should not be interfered witb by
taking fresh substance into the stomach whilst tha6
organ is engaged with a former meal. Seeondly,^
like all other organs, tbe stomach requires rest
after active exertion ; a short time^ tbercfore^ sbould



89

elapse beiween i)ie complete emptying of the siomach
and refilling it. Thirdly, take notice whether your
digestion is slow or quick ; if the former, place a
considerable period between yonr meals (these are the
cases where two meals a day suit very well), say seven
or eight hours ; if it be quick, and perhaps imperfect,
food must be taken in moderate quantity every four
hours. Fourthly and lastly, remember that the
digestion (of town people at leastj is weakest in
the morning, improves as the day proceeds, but after
long and exhausting labour, becomes again feeble.
The best meal of the day,, therefore^ should range
between two and six o^clock.
225. The following table shows the mean time of
digestion of some of the usual articles of diet.
Articles. Mode of Time of digestion^

of food. cooking; hrs. h.
