Vegetarian Diet & Health
The vegetarian diet has sometimes been viewed by mainstream omnivores as inadequate to provide proper nutrition. But in a 2009 position paper, the American Dietetic Association says that ". . . appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases."
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Significance
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Vegetarian diets have been linked to a reduction of hypertension, blood cholesterol levels and heart disease risk (see Resources).
Features
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The vegetarian diet is a plant-based diet that excludes animal products. However, many people who self-identify as vegetarians also include some eggs and dairy in their diet.
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Misconceptions
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Many people are concerned that a vegetarian diet may not provide complete protein, and other important nutrients such as calcium, iron and vitamin B12, but a properly planned vegetarian diet that includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains and legumes provides all the nutrition the human body of any age needs.
Benefits
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The health benefits of a vegetarian diet can include protection from diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and colon cancer, according to a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (see Resources). Many vegetarians report increased energy and vitality and a healthier weight than when they ate animal products.
Potential
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The vegetarian diet is healthy for humans, animals and our planet. People who switch to a vegetarian lifestyle have a greater impact on greenhouse gas emissions than by switching to a hybrid car (see Resources).
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References
Resources
- Ornish D, et. al. JAMA, Intensive lifestyle changes for reversal of coronary heart disease. 1998
- DA Snowdon; The Journal of Clinical Nutrition; Vol. 48 ;1988
- Appleby et al.; American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; The Oxford Vegetarian Study;1999
- H. Steinfeld et al.; Livestock's Long Shadow: Environmental Issues and Options, Livestock, Environment and Development; 2006
- Photo Credit photo credit: Marc Slingerland
