Health Problems That A Vegetarian Diet Can Prevent

Nearly 12 million people in the United States consider themselves vegetarians, according to the "Vegetarian Times" website. Almost 23 million others in the United States incorporate some elements of vegetarian cooking into their diets. A vegetarian diet does not include any products derived from animal flesh, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage, chicken patties or bacon. Most vegetarians also refrain from eating fish. Adhering to a vegetarian diet may help prevent several health problems common in the Western world. Adopting a vegetarian diet should not replace conventional medical treatment for any health condition. Talk to your doctor before switching to a vegetarian diet.

Obesity

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, about 60 percent of Americans are overweight, and nearly one-quarter are considered obese, or severely overweight. Vegetarians typically have lower body masses than omnivores, notes MayoClinic.com. Obesity is less common in vegetarians, and a healthy vegetarian diet, made up of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins such as tofu and legumes, may help prevent weight gain. However, some vegetarians who opt for high-fat, processed foods still experience weight gain, so cutting out meat does not guarantee freedom from obesity.

Heart Disease

Because a vegetarian diet excludes meat products, it is typically lower in saturated fats than an omnivorous diet. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," a saturated fats can increase blood cholesterol levels, which may lead to clogging of the arteries. This increases the stress load on the heart, which can result in strokes and heart attacks. However, vegetarians who rely on dairy products and eggs may still consume large quantities of saturated fats. Replace some or all of these foods with products such as soy milk, vegan butter and soy cheese.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread pain, sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch. Although the exact cause of this condition is unknown, consumption of red meats and other saturated fats may contribute to the onset of fibromyalgia. A healthy vegetarian diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, along with exercise and stress management techniques, may help prevent this condition.