LETTERS TO DR. NORTH.
Letter of Dr. Parmly.--Dr. W. A. Alcott.--Dr. D. S.
Wright.--Dr. H. N. Preston.--Dr. H. A. Barrows.--Dr. Caleb
Bannister.--Dr. Lyman Tenny.--Dr. J. M. B. Harden.--Joseph
Ricketson, Esq.--Joseph Congdon, Esq.--George W. Baker,
Esq.--John Howland, Jr., Esq.--Dr. Wm. H. Webster.--Josiah
Bennet, Esq.--Wm. Vincent, Esq.--Dr. Geo. H. Perry.--Dr. L. W.
Sherman.
LETTER I.--FROM DR. PARMLY, DENTIST.
To Dr. North.
MY DEAR SIR,--For two years past, I have abstained from the use of all
the diffusible stimulants, using no animal food, either flesh, fish, or
fowl; nor any alcoholic or vinous spirits; no form of ale, beer, or
porter; no cider, tea, or coffee; but using milk and water as my only
liquid aliment, and feeding sparingly, or rather, moderately, upon
farinaceous food, vegetables, and fruit, seasoned with unmelted butter,
slightly boiled eggs, and sugar or molasses; with no condiment but
common salt.
I adopted this regimen in company with several friends, male and female,
some of whom had been afflicted either with dyspepsia or some other
chronic malady. In every instance within the circle of my acquaintance,
the _symptoms_ of disease disappeared before this system of diet; and I
have every reason to believe that the disease itself was wholly or in
part eradicated.
In answer to your inquiry, whether I ascribe the cure, in the cases
alleged, to the abstinence from animal food or from stimulating drinks,
or from both, I cannot but give it as my confident opinion that the
result is to be attributed to a general abandonment of the _diffusive
stimuli_, under every shape and form.
An increase of flesh was one of the earliest effects of the
_anti-stimulating_ regimen, in those cures in which the system was in
low condition. The animal spirits became more cheerful, buoyant, and
uniformly pleasurable. Mental and bodily labor was endured with much
less fatigue, and both intellectual and corporeal exertion was more
vigorous and efficient.
In the language of Addison, this system of ultra temperance has had the
happy effect of "filling the mind with inward joy, and spreading delight
through all its faculties."
But, although I have thus made the experiment of abstaining wholly from
the use of liquid and solid stimulants, and from every form of animal
food, I am not fully convinced that it should be deemed improper, on any
account, to use the more slightly stimulating forms of animal food.
Perhaps fish and fowl, with the exception of ducks and geese, turtle and
lobster, may be taken without detriment, in moderate quantities. And I
regard good mutton as being the lightest, and, at the same time, the
most nutritious of all meats, and as producing less inconvenience than
any other kind, where the energies of the stomach are enfeebled. And yet
there are unquestionably many constitutions which would be benefited by
living, as I and others have done, on purely vegetable diet and ripe
fruits.
In relation to many of the grosser kinds of animal food, all alcoholic
spirits, all distilled and fermented liquors, tea and coffee, opium and
tobacco,--I feel confident in pronouncing them not only useless, but
noxious to the animal machine.
Yours, etc.,
ELEAZER PARMLY
NEW YORK, January 31, 1835.
LETTER II--FROM DR. W. A. ALCOTT.
BOSTON, December 19, 1834.
DEAR SIR,--I received your communication, and hasten to reply to as many
of your inquiries as I can. Allow me to take them up in the very order
in which you have presented them.
Answer to question 1. I was bred to a very active life, from my earliest
childhood. This active course was continued till about the time of my
leaving off the use of flesh and fish; since which period my habits
have, unfortunately, been more sedentary. I think my muscular strength
is somewhat less now than it was before I omitted flesh meat, but in
what proportion I am unable to say; for indeed it varies greatly. When
more exercise is used, my strength increases--sometimes almost
immediately; when less exercise is used, my strength again diminishes,
but not so rapidly. These last circumstances indicate a more direct
connection between my loss of muscular strength and my neglect of
exercise than between the former and my food.
2. Rather more agreeable; unless I use too large a quantity of food; to
which however I am rather more inclined than formerly, as my appetite is
keener, and food relishes far better. A sedentary life, moreover, as I
am well satisfied, tends to bring my moral powers into subjection to the
physical.
3. My mind has been clearer, since I commenced the experiment to which
you allude, than before; but I doubt whether I can better endure a
"laborious investigation." A little rest or exercise, perhaps less than
formerly, restores vigor. I am sometimes tempted to _break my day into
two_, by sleeping at noon. But I am not so apt to be cloyed with study,
or reflection, as formerly.
4. Several. 1. An eruptive complaint, sometimes, at one period of my
life, very severe. 2. Irritation of the lungs; probably, indeed most
certainly, incipient phthisis. 3. Rheumatic attacks, though they had
never been very severe.
The eruptive disease, however, and the rheumatic attacks, are not wholly
removed; but they are greatly diminished. The irritation at the lungs
has nearly left me. This is the more remarkable from the fact that I
have been, during almost the whole period of my experiment, in or about
Boston. I was formerly somewhat subject to palpitations; these are now
less frequent. I am also less exposed to epidemics. Formerly, like other
scrofulous persons, I had nearly all that appeared; now I have very few.
You will observe that I merely state the facts, without affirming,
positively, that my change of diet has been the cause, though I am quite
of opinion that this has not been without its influence. Mental quiet
and total abstinence from all drinks but water, may also have had much
influence, as well as other causes.
5. Very few colds. Last winter I had a violent inflammation of the ear,
which was attended with some fever; but abstinence and emollient
applications soon restored me. In July last, I had a severe attack of
diarrhoea unattended with much fever, which I attributed to drinking
too much water impregnated with earthy salts, and to which I had been
unaccustomed. When I have a cold, of late, it affects, principally, the
nasal membrane; and, if I practice abstinence, soon disappears. In this
respect, more than in any other, I am confident that since I commenced
the use of a vegetable diet I have been a very great gainer.
6. The experiment was fully begun four years ago last summer; though I
had been making great changes in my physical habits for four years
before. For about three years, I used neither flesh nor fish, nor even
eggs more than two or three times a year. The only animal food I used
was milk; and for some long periods, not even that. But at the end of
three years I ate a very small quantity of flesh meat once a day, for
three or four weeks, and then laid it aside. This was in the time of the
cholera. The only effect I perceived from its use was a slight increase
of peristaltic action. In March last, I used a little dried fish once or
twice a day, for a few days; but with no peculiar effects. After my
attack of diarrhoea, in July last, I used a little flesh several
times; but for some months past I have laid it aside entirely, with no
intention of resuming it. Nothing peculiar was observed, as to its
effects, during the last autumn.
7. I never used a large proportion of animal food, except milk, since I
was a child; but I have been in the habit, at various periods of my
life, of drinking considerable cider. For some months before I laid
aside flesh and fish, I had been accustomed to the use of more animal
food than usual, but less cider; though, for a part of the time, I made
up the deficiency of cider with ale and coffee. For several months
previous to the beginning of the experiment, I had drank nothing but
water.
8. Rather less. But here, again, I fear I am in danger of attributing to
one cause what is the effect of another. My neglect of exercise may be
more in fault than the rice and bread and milk which I use. Still I must
think that vegetable food is, in my own case, less aperient than animal.
9. In regard to students, my reply is, Yes, most certainly. So I think
in regard to laborers, were they trained to it. But how far _early
habits_ may create a demand for the continuance of animal food through
life, I am quite at a loss for an opinion. Were I a hard laborer, I
should use no animal food. When I travel on foot forty or fifty miles a
day, I use vegetable food, and in less than the usual quantity. This I
used to do before I commenced my experiment.
10. I use bread made of unbolted wheat meal, in moderate quantity, when
I can get it; plain Indian cakes once a day; milk once a day; rice once
a day. My plan is to use as few things as possible at the same meal, but
to have considerable variety at different meals. I use no new bread or
pastry, no cheese, and but little butter; and very little fruit, except
apples in moderate quantity.
11. The answer to this question, though I think it would be important
and interesting, with many other particulars, I must defer for the
present. The experiments of Dr. F., a young man in this neighborhood,
and of several other individuals, would, I know be in point; but I have
not at my command the time necessary to present them.
LETTER III.--FROM DR. D. S. WRIGHT.
WHITEHALL, Washington Co., N. Y., March 17, 1835.
DEAR SIR,--I noticed a communication from you in the Boston Medical and
Surgical Journal of the 5th instant, in which you signify a wish to
collect facts in relation to the effects of a vegetable diet upon the
human system, etc. I submit for your consideration my own experience;
premising, however, that I am a practicing physician in this place--am
thirty-three years old--of a sanguine, bilious temperament--have from
youth up usually enjoyed good health--am not generally subject to
fevers, etc.
I made a radical change in my diet three years ago this present month,
from a mixed course of animal and vegetable food, to a strictly
vegetable diet, on which I subsisted pretty uniformly for the most part
of one year. I renewed it again about ten moths ago.
My reasons for adopting it were: 1st. I had experienced the beneficial
effects of it for several years before, during the warm weather, in
obviating a dull cephalalgic pain, and oppression in the epigastrium.
2dly. I had recently left the salubrious atmosphere of the mountains in
Essex county, in this state, for this place of _musquitoes_ and
_miasmata_. 3dly, and prominently. I had frequent exposures to the
variolous infection, and I had a _dreadful_ apprehension that I might
have an attack of the varioloid, as at that time I had never
experimentally tried the protective powers of the vaccine virus, and
had _too_ little confidence in those who recommended its prophylactic
powers. The results I submit you, in reply to your interrogatories.
1. I think each time I tried living on vegetable food exclusively, that
for the first month I could not endure fatigue _as well_. Afterward I
could.
2. The digestive organs were always more agreeably excited.
3. The mind uniformly clearer, and could endure laborious investigations
longer, and with less effort.
4. I am constitutionally healthy and robust.
5. I believe I have more colds, principally seated on the mucous
membranes of the lungs, fauces, and cavities of the head. (I do not,
however, attribute it to diet.)
6. The first trial was one year. I am now ten months on the same plan,
and shall continue it.
7. I never used a large quantity of animal food or stimulants, of any
description.
8. I have for several years used tea and coffee, usually once a
day--believe them healthy.
9. Vegetable diet is less aperient than a mixed diet, if we except
_Indian corn_.
10. I do not think that common laborers, in health, could do as well
without animal food; but I think students might.
11. I have selected _potatoes_, when _baked_ or _roasted_, and all
articles of food usually prepared from _Indian meal_, as the most
healthy articles on which I subsist; particularly the latter, whose
aperient and nutritive qualities render it, in my estimation, an
invaluable article for common use.
Yours, etc.,
D. S. WRIGHT.
LETTER IV.--FROM DR. H. N. PRESTON.[1]
PLYMOUTH, Mass., March 26, 1835.
DEAR SIR,--When I observed your questions in the Boston Medical and
Surgical Journal, of the 11th of March, I determined to give you
personal experience, in reply to your valuable queries.
In the spring of 1832, while engaged in more than usual professional
labor, I began to suffer from indigestion, which gradually increased,
unabated by any medicinal or dietetic course, until I was reduced to the
very confines of the grave. The disease became complicated, for a time,
with chronic bronchitis. I would remark, that, at the time of my
commencing a severe course of diet, I was able to attend to my practice
daily.
In answer to your inquiries, I would say to the 1st--very much
diminished, and rapidly.
2. Rather less; distinct local uneasiness--less disposition to
drowsiness; but decidedly more troubled with cardialgia, and
eructations.
3. I think not.
4. My disease was decidedly increased; as cough, headache, and
emaciation; and being of a scrofulous diathesis, was lessening my
prospect of eventual recovery.
5. My febrile attacks increased with my increased debility.
6. Almost four months; when I became convinced death would be the
result, unless I altered my course.
7. I had taken animal food moderately, morning and noon--very little
high seasoning--no stimulants, except tea and coffee. The latter was my
favorite beverage; and I usually drank two cups with my breakfast and
dinner, and black tea with my supper.
8. I drank but one cup of weak coffee with my breakfast, none with
dinner, and generally a cup of milk and water with supper.
9. With me _much less aperient_; indeed, costiveness became a very
serious and distressing accompaniment.
10. From somewhat extensive observation, for the last seven years, I
should say, of laborers never; students seldom.
11. Among dyspeptics, potatoes nearly boiled, then mashed together,
rolled into balls, and laid over hot coals, until a second time cooked,
as easy as any vegetable. If any of the luxuries of the table have been
noticed as particularly injurious, it has been cranberries, prepared in
any form, as stewed in sauce, tarts, pies, etc.
Crude as these answers are, they are at your service; and I am prompted
to give them from the fact, that very few persons, I presume, have been
so far reduced as myself, with dyspepsia and its concomitants. In fact,
I was pronounced, by some of the most scientific physicians of Boston,
as past all prospect of cure, or even much relief, from medicine, diet,
or regimen. My attention has naturally been turned with anxious
solicitude to the subject of diet, in all its forms. Since my unexpected
restoration to health, my opportunities for observation among dyspeptics
have been much enlarged; and I most unhesitatingly say, that my success
is much more encouraging, in the management of such cases, since
pursuing a more liberal diet, than before. Plain animal diet, avoiding
condiments and tea, using mucilaginous drink, as the Irish Moss, is
preferable to "absolute diet,"--cases of decided chronic gastritis
excepted.
Yours, etc.,
H. N. PRESTON.
LETTER V.--FROM DR. H. A. BARROWS.
PHILLIPS, Somerset Co., Me., April 28, 1835.
DEAR SIR,--I have a brother-in-law, who owes his life to abstinence from
animal food, and strict adherence to the simplest vegetable diet. My own
existence is prolonged, only (according to human probabilities) by
entire abstinence from flesh-meat of every description, and feeding
principally upon the coarsest farinacea.
Numberless other instances have come under my observation within the
last three years, in which a strict adherence to a simple vegetable diet
has done for the wretched invalid what the best medical treatment had
utterly failed to do; and in no one instance have I known permanently
injurious results to follow from this course, but in many instances have
had to lament the want of firmness and decision, and a gradual return to
the "_flesh-pots of Egypt_."
With these views, I very cheerfully comply with your general invitation,
on page 77, volume 12, of the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. The
answers to your interrogatories will apply to the case first referred
to, to my own case, and to nearly every one which has occurred within my
notice.
1. Increased, uniformly; and in nearly every instance, without even the
usual debility consequent upon withdrawing the stimulus of animal food.
2. More agreeable in every instance.
3. Affirmative, _in toto_.
4. None aggravated, except flatulence in one or two instances. All the
horrid train of dyspeptic symptoms uniformly mitigated, and obstinate
constipation removed.
5. Fewer colds and febrile attacks.
6. Three years, with my brother; with myself, eighteen months partially,
and three months wholly; the others, from one to six months.
7. Negative.
8. Cold water--my brother and myself; others, hot and cold water
alternately.
9. More aperient,--no exceptions.
10. I believe the health of _students_ would uniformly be promoted--and
the days of the laborer, to say the least, would be lengthened.
11. I have; and that is, simple bread made of wheat meal, ground in
corn-stones, and mixed up precisely as it comes from the mill--with the
substitution of fine flour when the bowels become too active.
Yours, etc.,
HORACE A. BARROWS.
LETTER VI.--FROM DR. CALEB BANNISTER.
PHELPS, N. Y., May 4, 1835.
SIR,--My age is fifty-three. My ancestors had all melted away with
hereditary consumption. At the age of twenty, I began to be afflicted
with pain in different parts of the thorax, and other premonitory
symptoms of phthisis pulmonalis. Soon after this, my mother and eldest
sister died with the disease. For myself, having a severe attack of ague
and fever, all my consumptive symptoms became greatly aggravated; the
pain was shifting--sometimes between the shoulders, sometimes in the
side, or breast, etc. System extremely irritable, pulse hard and easily
excited, from about ninety to one hundred and fifty, by the stimulus of
a very small quantity of food; and, to be short, I was given up, on all
hands, as lost.
From reading "Rush" I was induced to try a milk diet, and succeeded in
regaining my health, so that for twenty-four years I have been entirely
free from any symptom of phthisis; and although subject, during that
time, to many attacks of fever and other epidemics, have steadily
followed the business of a country physician.
I would further remark, before proceeding to the direct answer to your
questions, that soon perceiving the benefit resulting from the course I
had commenced, and finding the irritation to diminish in proportion as I
diminished not only the quality, but quantity of my food, I took less
than half a pint at a meal, with a small piece of bread, amounting to
about the quantity of a Boston cracker; and at times, in order to lessen
arterial action, added some water to the milk, taking only my usual
quantity in _bulk_.
A seton was worn in the side, and a little exercise on horseback taken
three times every day, as strength would allow, during the whole
progress. The appetite was, at all times, not only _craving_, it was
_voracious_; insomuch that all my sufferings from all other sources,
dwindled to a point when compared with it.
The quantity that I ate at a time so far from satisfying my appetite,
only served to increase it; and this inconvenience continued during the
whole term, without the least abatement;--and the only means by which I
could resist its cravings, was to live entirely by myself, and keep out
of sight of all kinds of food except the scanty pittance on which I
subsisted. And now to the proposed questions.
1. Increased.
2. More agreeable, hunger excepted.
3. To the first part of this question, I should say evidently clearer;
to the latter part, such was the state of debility when I commenced, and
such was it through the whole course, I am not able to give a decisive
answer.
4. This question, you will perceive, is already answered in my
preliminary remarks.
5. Fewer, insomuch that I had none.
6. Two full years.
7. My living, from early life, had been conformable to the habits of the
farmers of New England, from which place I emigrated, and my habits in
regard to stimulating drinks were always moderate; but I occasionally
took them, in conformity to the customs of those "_times of ignorance_."
8. I literally drank _nothing_; the milk wholly supplying the place of
all liquids.
9. State of the bowels good before adopting the course, and after.
10. I do not.
11. I have not.
CALEB BANNISTER.
LETTER VII.--FROM DR. LYMAN TENNY.
FRANKLIN, Vermont, June 22, 1835.
SIR,--In answer to your inquiries, in the Boston Medical and Surgical
Journal, vol. xii., page 78, I can say that I have lived entirely upon a
bread and milk diet, without using any animal food other than the milk.
1. At first, my bodily strength was diminished to a certain degree, and
required a greater quantity of food, and rather oftener, than when upon
a mixed diet of animal food (strictly so called) and vegetables.
2. The animal sensations, attending upon the process of digestion, were
rather more agreeable than when upon a mixed diet.
3. My mind was more clear, but I could not continue a laborious
investigation as long as when I used animal food more plentifully.
4. At this time there were no constitutional infirmities which I was
laboring under, except those which more or less accompany the rapid
growth of the body; such as a general lassitude, impaired digestion,
etc., which were neither removed nor aggravated, but kept about so,
until I ate just what I pleased, without any regard to my indigestion,
etc., when I began to improve in the strength of my whole system.
5. I do not recollect whether I was subject to more or fewer colds; but
I can say I was perfectly free from all febrile attacks, although
febrile diseases often prevailed in my vicinity. But since that time, a
period of six years, I have had three attacks of fever.
6. The length of time I was upon this diet was about two years.
7. Before entering upon this diet, I was in the habit of taking a
moderate quantity of animal food, but without very high seasoning or
stimulants.
8. While using this diet, I confined myself entirely and exclusively to
cold water as a drink--using neither tea, coffee, nor spirits of any
kind whatever.
9. I am inclined to think that a vegetable diet is more aperient than an
animal one; indeed, I may say I know it to be a fact.
10. From what I have experienced, I do not think that laborers would be
any more healthy by excluding animal food from their diet entirely; but
I believe it would be much getter if they would use less. As to
students, I believe their health would be promoted if they were to
exclude it almost, if not entirely.
11. I never have selected any vegetables which I thought to be more
healthy than others: nor indeed do I believe there is any one that is
more healthy than another; but believe that all those vegetables which
we use in the season of them, are adapted to supply and satisfy the
wants of the system.
We are carnivorous, as well as granivorous animals, having systems
requiring animal, as well as vegetable food, to keep all the organs of
the body in tune; and perhaps we need a greater variety than other
animals.
Yours, etc.,
LYMAN TENNY.
LETTER VIII.--FROM DR. J. M. B. HARDEN.
LIBERTY COUNTY, Georgia, July 15, 1835.
SIR,--Having observed, in the May number of the "American Journal of the
Medical Sciences," certain inquiries in relation to diet, proposed by
you to the physicians of the United States, I herewith transmit to you
an account of a case exactly in point, which I hope may prove
interesting to yourself, and in some degree "assist in the settlement of
a question of _great interest_ to the _country_."
The case, to which allusion is made, occurred in the person of a very
intelligent and truly scientific gentleman of this county, whose regular
habits, both of mind and body, added to his sound and discriminating
judgment, will tend to heighten the value and importance of the
experiment involved in the case I am about to detail.
Before proceeding to give his answers to your interrogatories, it may be
well to premise, that at the time of commencing the experiment, he was
forty-five years of age; and being an extensive cotton planter, his
business was such as to make it necessary for him to undergo a great
deal of exercise, particularly on foot, having, as he himself declares,
to walk seldom less than ten miles a day, and frequently more; and this
exercise was continued during the whole period of the experiment. His
health for two years previously had been very feeble, arising, as he
supposed, from a diseased _spleen_; which organ is at this time
enlarged, and somewhat indurated. His digestive powers have _always_
been _good_, and he had been in the habit of making his meals at times
entirely of _animal food_. His bowels have always been regular, and
rather inclined to looseness, but never disordered. He is five feet
eight inches high, of a very thin and spare habit of body, with thin
dark hair, inclining to baldness; complexion rather dark than fair; eyes
dark hazel; of _very studious_ habits when free from active engagements;
with great powers of mental abstraction and attention, and of a temper
_remarkably even_.
In answer to your interrogatories, he replies,--
1. That his bodily strength was increased, and general health became
better.
2. He perceived no difference.
3. He is assured of the affirmative.
4. His spleen was diminished in size, and frequent and long-continued
attacks of _lumbago_ were rendered _much milder_, and have so continued.
5. Had fewer colds and febrile attacks.
6. Three years.
7. No; with the slight exception mentioned above.
8. No.
9. In his case rather less.
10. Undoubtedly.
11. No; has made his meals of cabbages entirely, and found them as
easily digested as any other article of diet. I may remark, that _honey_
to him is a poison, producing, _invariably_, symptoms of cholera.
After three years' trial of this diet, without having any previous
apparent disease, but on the contrary as strong as usual, he was taken,
somewhat suddenly, in the winter of 1832 and 3, with symptoms of extreme
debility, attended with oedematous swellings of the lower extremities,
and painful cramps, at night confined to the gastrocnemii of both legs,
and some feverishness, indicated more by the beatings of the _carotids_
than by any other symptom. His countenance became very pallid, and
indeed he had every appearance of a man in a very low state of health.
Yet, during the whole period of this apparent state of disease, there
were no symptoms indicative of disorder in any function, save the
general function of innervation, and perhaps that of the lymphatics or
absorbents of the lower extremities. Nor was there any manifest disease
of any organ, unless it was the spleen, which was not then remarkably
enlarged. I was myself disposed to attribute his symptoms to the spleen,
and possibly to the want of animal food; but he himself attributes its
commencement, if not its continuance, to the inhalation of the vapor of
arseniuretted and sulphuretted hydrogen gases, to which he was
subjected during some chemical experiments on the ores of cobalt, to
which he has been for a long time turning his attention; a circumstance
which I had not known until lately.
However it may be, he again returned to a mixed diet (to which however
he ascribes no agency in his recovery), and, after six months'
continuance in this state, he rapidly recovered his usual health and
strength, which, up to this day--two full years after the expiration of
six months--have continued good. In the treatment of his case no
medicine of any kind was given, to which any good effect can be
attributed; and indeed he may be said to have undergone no medical
treatment at all.
Yours, etc.,
J. M. B. HARDEN.
LETTER IX.--FROM JOSEPH RICKETSON, ESQ.
NEW BEDFORD, 8th month, 26th, 1835.
RESPECTED FRIEND,--Perhaps before giving answers to thy queries in the
American Journal of Medical Science, it may not be amiss to give thee
some account of my family and manner of living, to enable thee to judge
of the effect of a vegetable diet on the constitution.
I have a wife, a mother aged eighty-eight, and two female domestics. It
is now near three years since we adopted what is called the Graham or
vegetable diet, though not in its fullest extent. We exclude animal food
from our diet, but sometimes we indulge in shell and other fish. We use
no kind of stimulating liquors, either as drink or in cookery, nor any
other stimulants except occasionally a little spice. We do not, as
Professor Hitchcock would recommend, nor as I believe would be most
conducive to good health, live entirely simple; sometimes, however, for
an experiment, I have eaten only rice and milk; at other times only
potatoes and milk for my dinner; and have uniformly found I could endure
as much fatigue, and walk as far without inconvenience, as when I have
eaten a greater variety. We, however, endeavor to make our varieties
mostly at different meals.
For breakfast and tea we have some hot water poured upon milk, to which
we add a little sugar, and cold bread and butter; but in cold weather we
toast the bread, and prefer having it so cool as not to melt the butter.
We seldom eat a meal without some kind of dried or preserved fruit, such
as peaches, plums, quinces, or apples; and in the season, when easily to
be procured, we use, freely, baked apples, also berries, particularly
blackberries stewed, which, while cooking, are sweetened and thickened a
little. Our dinners are nearly the same as our other meals, except that
we use cold milk, without any water. We have puddings sometimes made of
stale bread, at others of Graham or other flour, or rice, or ground
rice, usually baked; we have also hasty puddings, made of Indian meal,
or Graham flour, which we eat with milk or melted sugar and cream;
occasionally we have other simple puddings, such as tapioca, etc.
Custards, with or without a crust, pies made of apple, and other fruits
either green or preserved; but we have no more shortening in the crust
than just to make it a little tender.
I have two sons; one lived with us about fifteen months after we adapted
this mode of living; it agreed remarkably well with him; he grew strong
and fleshy. He married since that time, and, in some measure, returned
to the usual manner of living; but he is satisfied it does not agree so
well with him as the Graham diet. The coarse bread he cannot well do
without. My other son was absent when we commenced this way of living;
he has been at home about six weeks, and has not eaten any animal food
except when he dined out. He has evidently _lost_ flesh, and is not very
well; _he_ thinks he shall not be able to live without animal food, but
I think his indisposition is more owing to the season of the year than
diet. He never drank any tea or coffee until about four years since,
when he took some coffee for a while, but no tea. For the last two years
he has not drank either, when he could get milk. He is generally
healthy, and so is his brother: both were literally brought up on
gingerbread and milk, never taking animal food of choice, until they
were fifteen or sixteen years of age.
Dr. Keep, of Fairhaven, Connecticut, was here about a year since, in
very bad health, since which I learn he has recovered by abstaining from
animal food and other injurious diet. As he is a scientific man, I think
he can give thee some useful information.
1. The strength of both myself and wife has very materially increased,
so that we can now walk ten miles as easily as we could five before;
possibly it may in part be attributed to practice. Our health is, in
every respect, much improved. One of our women enjoys perfect health;
the other was feeble when we commenced this way of living, and she has
not gained much if any in the time; but this may be owing to her
attendance on my mother, both day and night, who, being blind and
feeble, takes no exercise except to walk across the room; but we are
very sure she would not have lived to this time had she not adopted this
way of living.
2. The process of digestion is much more agreeable, if we do not indulge
in eating too much. We seldom have occasion to think of it after rising
from the table.
3. I do not perceive much effect on the mind, other than what would
naturally be produced by the restoration of health; but have no doubt a
laborious investigation might be continued as long, if not longer, on
this than any other diet.
4. I was formerly very much afflicted with the headache, and sometimes
was troubled with rheumatism. I have very seldom, for the last two years
especially, been troubled with either; and when I have had a turn of
headache, it is light indeed compared with what it was before we adopted
this system of living. My wife was very dyspeptic, and often had severe
turns of palpitation of the heart; the latter is entirely removed, and
she seldom experiences any inconvenience from the former. Our nurse was
formerly, and still is, troubled with severe turns of headache, though
not so bad as formerly; and I think she would have much less of it if
she were placed in a different situation.
5. We scarcely know what it is to have a cold; my wife in particular.
Previously to our change of diet, I was very subject to severe colds,
attended with a hard cough, which lasted, sometimes, for several weeks.
6. As before stated, we exclude animal food from our diet, as well as
tea and coffee.
7. Before we adopted a vegetable diet, we always had meat for dinner,
and generally with breakfast; and not unfrequently with tea. Tea and
coffee we drank very strong.
8. We have substituted milk and water sweetened, for tea and coffee.
9. Most vegetables I find have a tendency (especially when Graham or
unbolted wheaten flour is used) to keep the bowels open; to counteract
which, we use rice once or twice a week. Potatoes, when eaten freely,
are flatulent, but not inconvenient when eaten moderately.
10. I think the health of students, by the exclusion of animal food from
their diet, would be promoted, especially if they excluded tea and
coffee also; and I can see no good reason why it should not be
beneficial to laboring people. I have conversed with two or three
mechanics, who confirm me in this belief.
11. Graham bread, as we call it, eaten with milk, or baked potatoes and
milk, for most people, I think would be healthy; to which should be
added such a proportion of rice as may be found necessary.
Thy friend,
JOSEPH RICKETSON.
LETTER X.--FROM JOSEPH CONGDON, ESQ.
NEW BEDFORD, Sept., 1835.
ANSWERS to Dr. North's inquiries on diet.
1. Increase of strength and activity, connected with, and perhaps in
some good degree a consequence of, an increase of daily exercise.
2. Process of digestion more regular and agreeable.
3. Mental activity greater; no decisive experiments on the ability to
_continue_ a laborious investigation.
4. Dyspepsia of long continuance, and also difficult breathing;
inflammation of the eyes.
5. Fewer colds; febrile attacks very slight; great elasticity in
recovering from disease. Some part of the effect should undoubtedly be
ascribed to greater attention to the skin by bathing and friction.
6. Twenty-six months of _entire abstinence_ from all animal substances,
excepting butter and milk. Salt is used regularly.
7. Through life inclined to a vegetable diet, with few stimulants.
8. Drinks have been milk, milk and water, or cold water.
9. A _well-selected_ vegetable diet appears to produce a very regular
action of the stomach and bowels.
10. I think the health of laborers and students would be promoted by a
_great_ reduction of the usual quantity of animal food, and perhaps by
discontinuing its use entirely. I feel no want.
11. From my experience, I can very highly recommend bread made of coarse
wheat flour. Among fruits, the blackberry, as peculiarly adapted to the
state of the body, at the time of the year when it is in season. My
range of food has been confined. I avoid green vegetables. Age 35.
JOSEPH CONGDON.
LETTER XI.--FROM GEORGE W. BAKER, ESQ.
NEW BEDFORD, 9th month, 10, 1835.
DR. M. L. NORTH,--Agreeably to request, the following answers are
forwarded, which I believe to be correct as far as my experience has
tested.
1. At first it was diminished; but after a few months it was restored,
and I think increased.
2. More.
3. It could.
4. Pretty free from constitutional infirmities before the change, and no
increase since.
5. I have had no cold, of any consequence, for the last three years; at
which time I substituted cold water for tea and coffee, and commenced
using cold water for washing about my head and neck and for shaving,
which I continued through the year.
6. I have not eaten animal food for about eighteen months.
7. Two years previous to the entire change the quantity was great, but
there had been a gradual diminution.
8. It was. (See fifth answer.)
9. More so, in my case.
10. I believe the health of both laborers and students would be
improved.
11. I have generally avoided eating cucumbers; otherwise I have not.
Thy assured friend,
GEO. W. BAKER.
LETTER XII--FROM JOHN HOWLAND, JR., ESQ.
NEW BEFORD, 9th month, 10th day, 1835.
FRIEND,--As I have lived nearly three years upon a vegetable diet, I
cheerfully comply with thy request.
1. My bodily strength has been increased; and I can now endure much more
exercise than formerly, without fatigue.
2. They are more agreeable; and I am now free from that dull, heavy
feeling, which I used to experience after my meals.
3. My mind is much clearer; and I am free from that depression of
spirits, to which I was formerly subject.
4. I was of a costive, dyspeptic habit, which has been entirely removed.
I had frequent and severe attacks of headache, which I now rarely have;
and when they do occur they are very light, compared with what they
formerly were.
5. I have had fewer colds, and those much lighter than formerly.
6. About three years.
7. I used to eat animal food for breakfast and dinner, with coffee for
drink, at those meals; and tea for my third meal, with bread and butter.
8. Milk for breakfast, and cold water for the other two meals.
9. I have found it more so; inasmuch as the use of it, with the
substitution of bread, made from _coarse, unbolted wheat flour_, instead
of superfine, has removed my costiveness entirely.
10. I do.
11. I consider potatoes and rice as the most healthy, and confine myself
principally to the former.
I would remark that during the season of fruits, I eat freely of them,
with milk; and consider them to be healthy.
JOHN HOWLAND, JR.
LETTER XIII.--FROM DR. W. H. WEBSTER.
BATAVIA, N. Y., Oct. 21, 1835.
SIR,--Some months since, I read your inquiries on diet in the Boston
Medical and Surgical Journal; and subsequently in the Journal of Medical
Sciences, Philadelphia.
I will answer your questions, numerically, from my knowledge of a case
somewhat in point, and with which I am but too familiar, as it is my
own. But, first, let me premise a few points in the history of my
health, as a kind of key to my answers.
It is about fifteen years since I was called a _dyspeptic_; this was
while engaged in my academical studies. Not being instructed by my
medical friend to make any alteration in diet and regimen, I merely
swallowed his cathartics for one month, and his anodynes for the next
month, as the bowels were constipated or relaxed. In short, I left
college more dead than alive--a confirmed dyspeptic.
In 1826, I commenced the practice of physic. From this time, to the
winter of 1831-2, I found it necessary gradually to diminish my
indulgence in the luxuries of the table--especially in animal food, and
distilled and fermented liquors. On one of the most inclement nights of
the winter of 1831-2, a fire broke out in our village, at which I became
very wet by perspiration, and the ill-directed efforts of some to
extinguish it. This was followed by a severe inflammatory attack upon
the digestive organs generally, and especially upon the renal region,
which confined me to the house for more than eight months; and, for the
greatest share of that time, with the most excruciating torture. On
getting out again, I found myself in a wretched condition
indeed--reduced to a skeleton--a voracious appetite, which could not be
indulged, and which had scarcely deserted me through the whole eight
months. I could not regain my flesh or strength but by almost
imperceptible degrees; indeed, loaf-sugar and crackers were almost the
only food I could use with impunity for the first year.
It is now nearly four years since I have eaten animal food, unless it be
here and there a little, as an experiment, with the sole exception of
oysters, in which I can indulge, but with all due deference to the
stricter rules of temperance. Still my appetite for animal food seems
unabated. I have ever been a man unusually temperate in the use of
intoxicating drinks; and by no means intemperate in the luxuries of the
table. I take no meat, no alcoholic or fermented drinks, not even cider;
and, for a year past, my health has been better than for three years
previous; and I think that about one third the amount of nourishment
usually taken by men of my age, might subserve the purposes of food for
_me_ better than a larger quantity. The more I eat, the more I desire to
eat; and abstinence is my best medicine.
But I have already surpassed my limits, and here are my answers.
1. My strength is invariably diminished by animal food, and in almost
direct proportion to the quantity, with the exception named above.
2. Pain has been the uniform attendant upon the digestion of an animal
diet, with feverish restlessness and constipation.
3. Decidedly more fit for energetic action.
4. An irritation, or subacute inflammation of the digestive apparatus,
which is aggravated by animal food.
5. Can endure hardship, exposure, and fatigue, much better without meat.
6. About four years, with the exception stated above.
7. It was not.
8. Partially at the commencement; but not of late, if not taken hot.
9. Much more aperient.
10. Both classes take too much; and students and sedentaries should take
little or none.
11. For myself farinaceous articles first, then the succulent sub-acid
ripe fruits, then the less oily nuts are most healthful--and animal
food, strong coffee and tea, and unripe or hard fruits, in any
considerable quantities, are most pernicious.
Yours, etc.,
W. H. WEBSTER.
LETTER XIV.--FROM JOSIAH BENNET, ESQ.
MOUNT-JOY, Pa., Oct. 27, 1835.
SIR,--I hereby transmit to you, answers to a series of dietetic queries
which you have recently submitted.
1. My physical strength was at least equal (I am rather inclined to
think greater) after abstaining from animal food. I was, I am certain,
not subject to such general debility and lassitude of the system, after
considerable bodily exercise.
2. More agreeable--not being subject to a sense of vertigo, which
frequently (with me) followed the use of animal food. There is,
generally, more cheerfulness and vivacity.
3. The mind is more clear, and is not so liable to be confused when
intent upon any intricate subject; and, of course, "can continue a
laborious investigation longer." There is at no time such a propensity
to incogitancy.
4. I am not aware of being the subject of any "constitutional
infirmities;" yet, that the change of diet had a very great effect upon
the system, is obvious, from the fact of my having been, formerly,
subject to an eruptive disease of the skin, principally on the shoulders
and upper part of the back, for a number of years, which is not the case
at present, nor do I think will be, as long as I continue my present
mode of living.
5. I think I have not had as many colds and febrile attacks as before,
nor have they been so severe; yet I cannot be very decisive on this
point, on account of the length of time in the trial not being fully
sufficient.
6. Between seven and eight months. I must here state that animal food
was not _entirely_ excluded. I probably partook, in very moderate
quantities, once or twice a week.
7. The quantity of animal food which would be considered "an uncommon
proportion," I am unable to determine; but I was accustomed to make use
of it, not _less_ than twice, and sometimes three times a day,
moderately seasoned. No other stimulants, of any account.
8. Cold water has been the only substitute for tea and coffee, with the
exception of an occasional cup; probably as often as once or twice a
week. I was, on several occasions, by personal experience, induced to
believe that the use of strong coffee retarded the process of
digestion.
9. More aperient. Previous to the general exclusion of animal food from
my diet, I was subject to inveterate costiveness; cases of which are now
neither frequent nor severe.
10. I do firmly believe it would.
11. My diet, principally, during the trial, consisted of wheat bread, of
the proper age, with a moderate quantity of fresh butter. Potatoes,
beans, and some other esculent roots, etc., I found to be nutritious and
healthy. The following substances I found to produce a contrary effect,
or to possess different qualities: cabbage, when not well boiled;
cucumbers, raw or pickled; radishes, beets, and the whole catalogue of
preserves. Fresh bread was particularly hurtful to me.
Yours, etc.,
JOSIAH BENNETT.
LETTER XV.--FROM WILLIAM VINCENT, ESQ.[2]
HOPKINTON, R. I., Dec. 23, 1835.
SIR,--The following answer to the interrogations in the Boston Medical
and Surgical Journal of March 1835, on diet, etc., as proposed by
yourself, has been through the press of business, neglected until this
late period. Trusting they may be of some use, I now forward them.
1. Rather increased, if any change.
2. ----
3. I think I have retained the vigor of my mind more, in consequence of
an abstemious diet.
4. I thought I had the appearance of scurvy, which gradually
disappeared.
5. ----
6. From May 20, 1811, (more than twenty-four years.)
7. Small in quantity, and dressed and cooked simply.
8. I have drank nothing but warm tea, for seven years.
9. Bowels uniformly open.
10. I should not think it would.
11. I have lived principally on bread, butter, and cheese, and a few
dried vegetables.
I was born March 31, 1764. In 1833, when mowing, to quench thirst, I
drank about a gill of cold water, _after_ about as much milk and water;
and the same year, some molasses and water; but they did not answer the
purpose. But when I rinsed my mouth with cold water, it allayed my
thirst.
(Signed)
WM. VINCENT.
LETTER XVI.--FROM L. R. BRADLEY, BY DR. GEO. H. PERRY.
HOPKINTON, R. I., Dec. 23, 1835.
SIR,--I deem it necessary, first, to mention the situation of my health,
at the time of commencing abstinence from animal food. I was recovering
from an illness of a _nervous fever_. A sudden change respecting my food
not sitting well, rendered it necessary for me to abstain from all
kinds, excepting dry wheat bread and gruel, for several weeks. By
degrees I returned to my former course of diet, but as yet not to its
full extent, as I cannot partake of animal food of any kind whatever,
nor of vegetables cooked therewith.
1. Diminished.
2. ----
3. I do not perceive the mind to be clearer, and the power of
investigation less.
4. Distress in the stomach and pain in the head removed.
5. ----
6. Six years and ten months.
7. Unusual proportion of animal food.
8. The first year, I drank only warm water, sweetened; since that, tea.
9. ----
10. I do not.
11. I find _beets_ particularly hard to digest.
L. R. B.
The foregoing statements and answers are in her own way and manner.
Yours, etc.,
GEO. H. PERRY.
LETTER XVII.--FROM DR. L. W. SHERMAN.
FALMOUTH, Mass., March 28, 1835.
SIR,--In compliance with the request you recently made in the Medical
Journal, I inclose the following answers to the queries relative to
regimen you have propounded. They are given by a lady, whose experience,
intelligence, and discernment, have eminently qualified her to answer
them. She, with myself, is equally interested with you in having this
important question settled, and is extremely happy that you have
undertaken to do it. This lady is now fifty years of age; her
constitution naturally is good; her early habits were active, and her
diet simple, until twenty years of age. After that, until within a few
years, her living consisted of all kinds of meats and delicacies, with
wine after dinners, etc., etc.
1. Her bodily strength was greatly increased by excluding animal food
from her diet.
2. The animal sensations connected with the process of digestion have
been decidedly more agreeable.
3. The mind is much clearer, the spirits much better, the temper more
even, and "less irritability pervades the system." The mind can continue
a laborious investigation longer than when she subsisted on a mixed
diet.
4. Her health, which was before feeble, has, by the change, been
decidedly improved.
5. She has certainly had fewer colds, and no febrile attacks of any
consequence, since she has practiced rigid abstinence from meats.
6. She has abstained entirely for three years, and has taken but little
for seven or eight years; and whenever she has, from necessity (in being
from home, where she could procure nothing else), indulged in eating
meat, she has universally suffered severely in consequence.
7. The change to a vegetable diet was preceded, in her case, by the use
of an uncommon proportion of animal food, highly seasoned with
stimulants.
8. Tea and coffee she has not used for thirteen years. She has used, for
substitutes, water, milk and water, barley water, and gruel. She found
tea and coffee to have an exceedingly pernicious effect upon her nervous
and digestive system.
9. A vegetable diet is more aperient than a mixed. Habitual constipation
has been entirely removed by the change.
10. She sincerely believes, from her experience, that the health of
laborers and students would be generally promoted by the exclusion of
animal food from their diet.
11. She considers _hominy_, as prepared at the South, particularly
healthy; and subsists upon this, with bread made from coarse flour, with
broccoli, cauliflower, and all kinds of vegetables in their season.
Be assured, dear sir, that these answers have come from a high source,
to which private reference may at any time be made, and consequently are
entitled to the highest consideration.
Yours, etc.,
L. W. SHERMAN.
NOTE.--If I have not been minute enough in the relation of this case, I
shall hereafter be happy to answer any questions you may think proper to
propose. It is a very interesting and important case, in my opinion. The
lady has been under my care a number of times, while laboring under
slight indisposition. She has always been very regular and systematic in
all her habits. She is healthy and robust in appearance, and looks as
though she might not be more than forty. This is the only case of the
kind within my knowledge. I have practiced on her plan for a few weeks
at a time, and, so far as my experience goes, it precisely comports with
hers. But I love the "good things" of this world too well to abstain
from their use, until some formidable disease demands their prohibition.
Yours, etc.,
L. W. S.
FOOTNOTES:
[1] Dr. Preston has since deceased.
[2] Mr. Vincent is of Stonington, Ct.