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Vegetarian
Diet |
| A
vegetarian diet involves the practice of only
eating foods that do not come from animal sources. Instead,
vegetarians typically consume plant-based sources of foods
such as fruits, grains, legumes, nuts and vegetables.
Some vegetarians eat eggs and dairy products while others
do not. Vegetarianism
is the practice of avoiding foods from animal sources
and instead consuming plant sources of foods such as
fruits, grains, legumes, nuts and vegetables. However,
there are several different types of vegetarian diets
characterized by the types of food included in the diet.
They include: |
Lacto-ovo-vegetarian.
Eggs and dairy products are included in the diet, but
meat, poultry and fish are excluded. Most vegetarians
in the United States fall into this category, according
to the American Dietetic Association.
Lacto-vegetarian. Dairy products are included in the diet,
but meat, poultry, fish and eggs (and egg-derived products)
are excluded.
Strict vegetarian (also known as vegan) No animal-based
products of any kind are included in the diet. Excluded
items are meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and
other dairy products. In some cases, vegans may also avoid
foods with animal products as ingredients (e.g., lard,
beef tallow, butter).
Semi-vegetarian. Someone who generally follows a vegetarian
diet but occasionally eats poultry or fish. Typically,
the diet excludes red meat. |
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| While
vegetarian diets can provide many health benefits, people
who choose to eat this way must be careful to plan meals
that provide all the nutrients necessary for good health.
This is especially true of certain populations.
Women
who are pregnant or breastfeeding generally are urged
to wait until a later time to switch to a vegetarian
diet. Women who are already vegetarians may not have
to alter their diet much to ensure that their baby develops
normally. However, it may be a good idea to consult
with a registered dietitian. Some experts recommend
that vegetarians consume up to 300 additional calories
a day during pregnancy.
Young
children can eat a healthy vegetarian diet. However,
it is crucial that parents closely supervise all meals
to ensure that their children are receiving the variety
of foods necessary to obtain nutrients crucial to growth
and health. Children require sufficient amount of several
vitamins, minerals and nutrients to grow and develop
normally. |
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