There are many variations of the vegetarian diet: a lacto-vegetarian diet includes dairy products, an ovo-vegetarian diet includes eggs, and a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet includes both.
A vegetarian diet can meet all a person's nutritional needs if planned thoughtfully. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, avoid saturated fats, watch calories and portions, and be physically active.
To get the most out of a vegetarian diet, choose a variety of healthy plant-based foods. These include whole fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Nuts and legumes, such as lentils, beans and peanuts, also are considered healthy plant-based foods. At the same time, cut back on less healthy choices.
Some vegetarian diets exclude only meat, poultry and fish, while others also exclude eggs and dairy products. The three main types of vegetarian diets are vegan, lacto-vegetarian and lacto-ovo-vegetarian. This diet excludes all animal products, meaning any food that comes from an animal.
What To Know About the Vegetarian Diet - Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
vegetarianism, the theory or practice of living solely upon vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, and nuts —with or without the addition of milk products and eggs —generally for ethical, ascetic, environmental, or nutritional reasons.
Vegetarianism is a popular diet choice, whether temporary or lifelong. But what exactly does it mean to be a vegetarian? In the most basic sense, vegetarians do not eat meat.
Find tips and resources for creating a healthy vegetarian eating plan that meets nutrient recommendations.
People may adopt a vegetarian diet for various reasons, and several variations of vegetarianism exist. This article provides a beginner's guide to the vegetarian diet, including a sample meal...