Berries

All berries are rich in minerals and feed the brain cells. They contain traces of protein. Blackberries and huckleberries are rich in volatile oils and iron, and are of great medicinal value. They are excellent for the evening meal in the form of gruels and drinks.

People with digestive troubles should be careful in combining raw blackberries with other foods. They are rich in protein and may take the place of part of the meat dish on hot summer days. They should never be used as a dessert after a heavy meal.

Strawberries

Strawberries are the first fruit to make their appearance in the spring. They are rich in iron and valuable acids. As they are in season for a long time they should not be eaten to excess, never more than once per day. From three to eight ounces, according to age, is sufficient for one meal. If perfectly fresh, they combine well with fresh cream or milk. Yeast bread, red meats or legumes should not be eaten at the same meal with strawberries. Berries which have undergone slight decomposition should be placed in a mason fruit jar with a little water and be sterilized. This juice will keep for several days in a cold place and can be used for the flavoring of milk, or for softening zwieback which is to be served with cream or milk. If the juice has undergone fermentation reboil it before using. It may be used for fruit puddings or fruit gruels or be mixed with other fruit juices. In this way everything is utilized and nothing wasted.

Cherries

The cherry season is short. Therefore, they should be eaten almost daily. All varieties are wholesome. If desired, several kinds may be mixed at one meal. They combine well with egg foods, whole wheat, cornmeal and fish. They may be eaten at the beginning or at the end of a meal or by themselves. People with weak stomachs should not eat them at night.

Blackberries

They are a valuable and nutritious fruit and can form a perfect meal in combination with light cereal foods. They have little preservative properties and therefore should be eaten only when perfectly fresh. For young children or people with, intestinal weakness, only the juice should be used in the form of wine or gruels.

Raspberries

They are a light and delicious fruit. They combine well with milk, egg foods, or nuts, and can be served morning, noon or night.

Peaches. Pears And Apricots

They are all three rich In sugar and cellulose, and can form a substitute for part of the cereal foods during hot summer days. (See recipes for Salads.)

The Pineapple

The pineapple contains bromaline and is of medicinal value in the treatment of certain stomach disorders. It is not a necessary article for the table of people of moderate means.

Bananas

They are a very nutritious fruit and can partially replace the cereals. If combined with green leaves, and lemon, they can form a perfect meal. The bitter substance which is contained in the inner skin of the banana should be scraped off with a knife and added to the bulk, as it counteracts the sweet flavor of the banana and adds to its digestibility. Baked bananas are not necessary for a healthy stomach.