A healthy, well-balanced and nutritious diet. I approve. Where were you living - in Ireland, perhaps? I am curious to learn the circumstances, if you feel like sharing. Sounds intriguing. And did you know? Gargling with Guinness is excellent for a sore throat, or for anyone who is taxing the vocal chords with singing, acting, etc.. I learned this from my acting teacher, who learned it from his teacher, Lawrence Olivier. He would spit it out, but I myself swallow after gargling. Waste not, want not.