What are some drawbacks to a vegetarian lifestyle? What, if

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What are some drawbacks to a vegetarian lifestyle? What, if

In a health class have few questions about Regina Dawson and her 15-year-old daughter Claire, are excited. “We’ve become vegetarians!” Regina says. “We did it at first to lose weight!” “And to save the animals,” adds Claire. “But primarily to lose weight,” says Regina. “Mainly, it’s the animal rights thing,” Claire shakes her head.
“It also saves money,” Regina deftly changes the subject. “That’s not important, mom,” says Claire. Regina smiles at Chris, the nutrition nurse. “We’ve come for a little guidance,” she says. “I’m kind of freaking out a little bit over my child not eating meat anymore.” “I don’t need it, mom.” “Maybe not,” Regina says, “but it’s fine for me. I’m postmenopausal; but for you—well, honey, I really think I’d be more comfortable with all this if you’d just have a nice juicy steak once in a while, you know? To really feed your blood?” “Ugh! Stop!” Claire says. “Meat is totally gross! I’ve told you that. I don’t need it!”
Regina raises her hands and laughs, “I know! I know! But—I’m a mom, okay? I have to know for sure.” The two smile at Chris. “Great,” he smiles back. “Let’s get started!”
1. “First, before you do anything else,” Claire says, “I know there are things we have to do to our diet, especially to make sure we get enough protein; but before we start in on all that, can you please, please, please make my mom feel better about it? The truth is, she’s really just doing it for me, so it will help if you can reassure her that this can work.” What might Chris say?
2. Claire and Regina have some debate about what it means to be a vegetarian. For one thing, Claire eats only plant foods. “If it’s not off a plant, I don’t eat it,” she says. Regina argues with her that you can still be a vegetarian and eat dairy foods. “Plus,” she says, “an egg is not an animal, and it has a lot of benefits.” Claire turns to Chris, “So, is my mom really a vegetarian? I’m not so sure!” How should Chris respond?
3. “So are you two feeling that I shouldn’t have any concerns?” Regina asks. “No, not exactly,” Chris says. What are some drawbacks to a vegetarian lifestyle? What, if anything, can be done about these drawbacks?