CHAPTER V.. On Drinks.

ON DRINKS.

Thirst the best guide in taking simple drinks--Thirst increased by diminution of the circulating fluids--The desire for liquids generally an indication of their propriety--Much fluid hurtful at meals--Most useful three or four hours later--The temperature of drinks is of consequence--Curious fall of temperature in the stomach from cold water--Ices hurtful after dinner--Useful in warm weather, when digestion is completed and caution used--Cold water more dangerous than ice when the body is overheated--Tepid drinks safest and most refreshing after perspiration--Kinds of drink--Water safe for every constitution--Wine, spirits, and other fermented liquors, too stimulating for general use, but beneficial in certain circumstances--Test of their utility, 304–323