In disease of the heart which has passed the period of compensatory activity, so that the organ is no longer able to discharge its functions perfectly, it is highly important that the stomach be not overloaded by heavy meals, and that the likelihood of flatulency be minimized as much as possible by care in eating, for distention of the stomach from any cause may be quickly felt by the pressure upon the weakened heart. Many fatalities come about in this manner; hence meals should be small, repeated when necessary. The food should be concentrated and should contain little waste material. Certain articles of food prone to ferment should be excluded, the patient's own experience being the best guide.

On the other hand, it is also important to avoid increasing the blood pressure by giving too much water, which should be kept within a certain daily limit conformable to the good results obtained. Patients should not try to live on milk or take any mineral water cure. Anything which produces thirst - like salted food, spices, etc., should be avoided, as should exposure to very hot weather.