There are three types of vegetarian: vegan, lacto-vegetarian and lacto-ovo vegetarian, according to MayoClinic.com. Vegans eliminate all animal-based foods from the diet, including meat, fish, dairy products and eggs. Lacto-vegetarians eat primarily a plant-based diet but also consume milk products. Lacto-ovo vegetarians add eggs to the diet. Eliminating some or all animal products from the diet offers certain health benefits.
Disease Prevention
A vegetarian diet may help you avoid certain diseases and health conditions, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The plant-based diet is typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol while being high in fiber, a beneficial combination when it comes to disease prevention. A vegetarian diet may reduce the risks of cancer, heart disease, gallstones, kidney stones, osteoporosis and diabetes.
Blood Sugar Levels
Consuming a vegetarian diet often aids in the control of blood sugar levels, according to MayoClinic.com. The body may also respond better to insulin. Both of these benefits are particularly useful to a person with diabetes. Eating a plant-based diet may help you avoid complications related to diabetes. Talk with your health care provider about the benefits based on your particular medical history.
General Health
A vegetarian diet offers general health benefits that may make you feel better and live a healthier lifestyle. According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, individuals on a vegetarian diet are more likely to have lower blood pressure. This may be due to the lower fat and sodium content of plant-based foods or the high potassium levels in fruits and vegetables.
GoVeg.com says that a vegetarian lifestyle may strengthen your immune system for better protection against common illnesses. The site also notes that people on a vegan diet may have more energy, strength and stamina than those who eat meat.
Weight Control
The lower fat and calorie content of a vegetarian diet may help you keep your weight under control, according to MayoClinic.com. The BMI, or body mass index, of vegetarians tends to be lower than that of those who consume animal-based diets. Keeping your weight under control helps you look and feel better while keeping you healthier overall.
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