and fats. largest
Amount formed quantities
in the body is by the
small. kidneys and
the skin.
Salts Solid Dissolved in By the
the plasma. kidneys,
liver, and
skin.

HYGIENE

The separation of wastes from the body has such a close relation to the
health that all conditions affecting it should receive the most careful
attention. Their retention beyond the time when they should be discharged
undoubtedly does harm and is the cause of many bodily disorders.

*Value of Water.*--As a rule the work of excretion is aided by drinking
_freely_ of pure water. As water is the natural dissolver and transporter
of materials in the body, it is generally conceded by hygienists and
physicians that the taking of plenty of water is a healthful practice.
People do not as a rule drink a sufficient amount of water, about three
pints per day being required by the average adult, in addition to that
contained in the food. Most of the water should, of course, be taken
between meals, although the sipping of a small amount during meals does
not interfere with digestion. As stated elsewhere, the taking of a cup of
water on retiring at night and again on rising in the morning is very
generally recommended.

*Protection of Kidneys and Liver.*--The kidneys and liver are closely
related in their work and in many instances are injured or benefited by
the same causes. Both, as already stated (page 124), are liable to injury
from an _excess of proteid food_, especially meats, and also by a
condition of inactivity of the bowels (page 166). The free use of alcohol
also has an injurious effect on both of these organs.(75) On the other
hand, increasing the activity of the skin has a beneficial effect upon
them, especially the kidneys. Exercise and bathing, which tend to make the
skin more active, are valuable aids both in ridding the body of impurities
and in lessening the work of the other excretory organs. One having a
disease of the kidneys, however, needs to exercise great care in bathing
on account of the bad results which follow getti