A Study
My manuscript shall be entitled: "The effects of a Malaysian diet on body weight and composition: A 2-week prospective study" "Prevalence of depression in subjects deprived of Malaysian mamak food".
Objective: Malaysian food has typically been thought to be lacking in nutrients and was traditionally thought to be a poor source of energy. We sought to investigate this and to dispel any myths regarding the unhealthiness of the Malaysian diet.
Methodology: This was a prospective study of 2 weeks duration involving a large number of subjects (n=1; however because the study subject was an outstanding male specimen, this was deemed adequatedly powered to show a statistically significant difference). The patient was subjected to no less than 4 meals a day of Malaysian food of his choosing, limited only by stomach capacity and postprandial nausea. Western and non-ethnic foods were omitted from our study. Body weight was measured by a single Weight Watchers digital scale, and data regarding intake/output was captured using a specialized digital-ink-wood fiber papyrus interface (ie pen and paper). Data was analyzed by using the t test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test.
Results: In the 16 days in his native land of Malaysia, the subject consumed 85 meals (mean daily 6 ± 2). He experienced 2 episodes of traveller's diarrhea, both of which were minor and did not require decreasing the frequency of meals. At the end of the study duration, he gained 2.3 kg (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Contrary to public belief, we have shown that the Malaysian diet is rich in nutrients, and should be employed in a malnourished population.
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