There are many types of vegetarian diets, and many reasons people choose them. These include:
- health considerations
- concern for the environment
- animal welfare
- economics
- ethical considerations
- world hunger issues
- religious beliefs
The American Dietetic Association has affirmed that properly planned vegetarian and vegan diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate and provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. In some cases, the use of fortified foods or supplements may be required to meet the nutrient needs of some individuals.
Health Implications
Well-planned vegan and vegetarian diets offer several nutritional benefits. These include:
- lower levels of saturated fat
- cholesterol and animal protein as well as higher levels of unrefined carbohydrate
- fiber
- magnesium
- potassium, folic acid
- antioxidants and phytochemicals
Vegetarians have been reported to have lower blood cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and prostate and colon cancer. [Journal of the American Dietetic Association, June 2003]
Meeting Nutrient Needs
Vegan, vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets alike can provide adequate nutrition throughout the lifecycle. They may, however, provide inadequate nutrition if care is not taken to ensure adequate sources of certain nutrients. A diet that regularly contains a variety of foods, including those shown below, is likely to provide adequate amounts of protein, calcium, essential fats, iron and other nutrients.
- vegetables
- fruits
- leafy greens
- whole grains
- nuts
- seeds
- legumes