Introduction + Interview
-10/8/17
Introduction to 20 Time
20 Time is a project where 20% of class time a week goes to the students creativity. During this time given, I can create any project of my liking. I chose to go one month as a vegetarian. This means that for thirty days I will be eating anything but meat, poultry, and fish. I had many unanswered questions about my project so I decided to ask a professional for some help. I emailed my questions to Dr. Yiching Andrew Liu, MD, doctor of internal medicine. This is how the interview went:
1. How does going vegetarian change the body as a whole?
Liver is the primary organ metabolizing proteins. Typically a vegetarian diet is lower in protein intake, so this could potentially decrease the burden on liver.
2. Will going vegetarian change my weight? If so, by how much?
Not necessarily. Typically a diet rich in protein keeps one full longer so it is possible for a vegetarian to consume more food in response.
3. Where do I get more protein and iron?
Certain beans contain proteins and dark green leafy vegetables contain iron.
4. Will going vegetarian lead to nutritional deficiencies?
Potentially. Amino acids make up proteins. One has to consume a variety of beans/vegetables to ensure one gets all the different amino acids for protein synthesis.
5. Will my skin be healthier after a month?
I am not aware of any solid scientific studies to back this claim.
6. What disease risks are minimized?
There has been some studies suggesting that high protein diet is linked to colon cancer.
7. Will I need to eat supplements?
It may be necessary if one is not confident of consuming a variety of beans/vegetables.
8. Is it true that vegetarians live longer?
Again, I am not aware of any good scientific studies to back that up.
9. How will my body react to this change?
Again, potentially one may get hungry more often depending on what kinds of vegetables are being consumed.
10. Is the vegetarian diet the best way to eat?
Not necessarily. A well-balanced diet in moderation is probably the best way to go.
Dr. Yiching Andrew Liu has over 17 years of medical experience. He attended and graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine and has been awarded more than 7 times for brilliant work in internal medicines field. He is an affiliated MD in Bayshore Medical Center in Pasedena, Texas and many other hospitals.
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