~Selection and Preparation of Foods.~--For this reason the so-called red meat is sometimes boiled instead of roasted, as the latter mode of preparation increases the formation of purins on the brown outer surfaces of the meat. Chicken and fish contain less purin bases and for this reason are often included in the diet when beefsteak and lamb chops are excluded. Meat soups and broths contain little nutrient value, consisting as they do chiefly of water, salt, and extractives, all of which are looked upon with disfavor, and classed with the offending articles of food in the nephritic diet. Cream soups, except bean or pea soup,[121] may be given in moderation. They are non-toxic in character and of high nutrient value, furnishing a valuable addition to the diet when the gastro-intestinal symptoms permit of such addition. CONVALESCENT NEPHRITIC DIET[122] ~Advisable Foods.~--The following foods are used in the formation of diet for an advanced convalescent nephritic patient when not otherwise contraindicated: Cereals, potatoes, rice, green vegetables and salads, fruits, fresh and stewed, ham, bacon, or beef once or twice a week, chicken, lamb, or mutton[123] several times a week, simple desserts, such as junket, prune or fig whip, orange, lemon, grape, pineapple or apricot gelatin, bread, rice or tapioca pudding, plain vanilla ice cream.[124] ~Foods to Be Avoided.~--The following foods are avoided except the meats, which must be given not more than once to three times a week, as directed by physician: Meat broths, especially those made from commercial meat extracts, bouillon cubes, etc. Strong tea or coffee. Alcoholic beverages, unless especially prescribed by the physician. Liver, kidney, sweetbreads.[125] Meat croquettes and other made dishes. Rich sauces or gravies. Condiments and spices of all sorts. Rich pastries. The salt must be limited and water and other fluids restricted. ~Sample Diet Sheets.~--The following menus[126] formulated from the above diet list are suggested: ~No. 1.~--8 A.M. Sliced oranges, cream of wheat with cream, buttered toast, cocoa. 10:30 A.M. 6 ounces of milk with crackers. 12:30 P.M. Cream of spinach soup, rice, string beans, orange gelatin, bread and butter. 3 P.M. 6 ounces of buttermilk with crackers. 6 P.M. Cereal and cream, baked potato, apple sauce, cocoa, bread and butter. ~No. 2.~--8 A.M. Stewed prunes, wheatena and cream, milk or dry toast with butter, cocoa. 10:30 A.M. 6 ounces of malted milk with crackers or 1 slice of zwieback. 12:30 P.M. Cream of corn soup, mashed potatoes, beet tops or mustard greens, lettuce salad, dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil, rice pudding. 3 P.M. 6 ounces of orange or grape juice with crackers. 6 P.M. Cream toast, sliced peaches, cocoa. ~No. 3.~--8 A.M. Half a grapefruit, farina and cream, toast and butter, cocoa. 10:30 A.M. 6 ounces of buttermilk with crackers.