According to the International Vegetarian Union, ovo-lacto diets are the most common form of vegetarian diets in Western countries. Eastern countries consume less dairy and eggs than the west. For example, vegetarian diets in India often include milk but no eggs and Japanese vegetarian diets are more likely to be vegan.
Food Choices
Ovo-lacto vegetarian diets are diets that contain no meat or fish, but allow dairy products and eggs. Other animal products might or might not be allowed depending on personal preference. For example, some vegetarians might shun gelatin. Honey is often not acceptable for vegans, but fine for ovo-lacto vegetarians.
Health Benefits
Ovo-lacto vegetarian diets are lower in cholesterol than diets than include meat. The dairy present in the diet even provides the necessary calcium, protein and iron to keep your levels at a normal range. This is a benefit over more strict vegetarian diets, which might result in deficiencies.
Vegan vs. Ovo-Lacto Vegetarian Diets
Ovo-lacto vegetarian diets usually provide complete nutrition. Vegans might have a B-12 deficiency, but ovo-lacto vegetarians usually can obtain enough B-12 from dairy products. Ovo-lacto vegetarian diets should also provide enough omega-3 fatty acids, found in eggs, and zinc, found in cheese. Both of these might be lacking in vegan diets.
Ovo-Lacto Diets for Children and Teenagers
Ovo-lacto vegetarian diets offer the most complete nutrition for children and teens who don't eat meat. Zinc, iron, calcium and B-12 are all essential during the development period and these can all be obtained from dairy products and eggs. Vitamin D is obtained by a combination of dietary choices such as dairy and sun exposure, so teenagers who follow an ovo-lacto diet should be OK as well.
Member Comments