Vegetarianism is a dietary practice and philosophical belief that abstains from the consumption of meat, including seafood and other animal-derived products. It is an umbrella term encompassing various degrees and types of vegetarian diets. The foundation of vegetarianism lies in the belief that avoiding the consumption of animals for food is both morally and ethically correct.
A person following vegetarianism, known as a vegetarian, typically adheres to a diet primarily based on plant-based foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Vegetarianism rejects the consumption of meats like beef, pork, poultry, and fish, as well as by-products such as gelatin and rennet.
There are different forms of vegetarianism, including lacto-vegetarianism, where dairy products are still consumed, ovo-vegetarianism, which includes eggs in the diet, and lacto-ovo-vegetarianism, where both dairy products and eggs are permitted. Veganism is a stricter form of vegetarianism that avoids all animal products, including dairy, eggs, and honey.
Vegetarianism is often adopted for a combination of reasons, including health considerations, environmental concerns, ethical and religious beliefs, and personal preferences. Studies suggest that vegetarian diets can offer various health benefits such as reduced risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, and certain types of cancers. Beyond health, many vegetarians choose their diets to reduce animal suffering and minimize the environmental impact associated with animal agriculture.
Overall, vegetarianism is a lifestyle choice that involves avoiding the consumption of meat and animal-derived products in favor of a primarily plant-based diet.
