Although many people think vegetarians are all the same, there are many different sub-categories within the vegetarian group. Similar to all vegetarians is that they choose not to eat meat. There are different reasons people choose this lifestyle. They might have chosen to be a vegetarian for ethical reasons, related to animal cruelty and environmental awareness, for health reasons or simply because they do not like the taste of meat.
Vegans
Vegans are the strictest type of vegetarian, as they eat nothing that comes from animals. They do not eat meat, seafood, eggs, dairy or any other animal-derived foods, such as lard or gelatin. They often refuse to wear leather as well. Vegans are the type with the most health concerns associated with their diet, including deficiencies in vitamin B12 and iron.
Lacto-Ovo Vegetarians
Lacto-ovo vegetarians are the group most vegetarians fall into, according to The Vegetarian Society. This group does not eat meat, but it chooses to consume eggs and dairy products, which come from animals. This group can be broken down further into two different sub-sections, including lacto-vegetarians, who eat dairy but not eggs, and ovo-vegetarians, who consume eggs but not dairy.
Pesco-Vegetarians
Pesco-vegetarians, or pescetarians, are lacto-ovo vegetarians that also consume seafood. The Ask Dr. Sears website argues that this is the healthiest type of vegetarian, as they consume all the nutrients they need to be healthy.
Fruitarians
Fruitarians choose to eat only food that comes from the plant-based natural world, especially fruit. They do not eat meat, dairy, grains or any processed foods. Fruitarians mostly consume fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They argue that their diet is similar to human ancestors who ate what they found in their natural surroundings.
Flexitarians
Flexitarians make up a group that probably has the easiest fit within American culture. Flexitarians are those who generally eat as vegetarians, but may choose to eat meat once in a while. This group could also include people who greatly limit the amount of meat they eat. The Ask Dr. Sears website calls this group "semi-vegetarians." MSNBC explains that this group generally chooses to limit their meat consumption because of health reasons. The animal-conscious members of this group tend to eat more animal-friendly foods, such as free-range eggs and chicken.
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