There are many benefits to becoming a vegetarian and there are different types of vegetarians. One benefit is the health benefit. According to the ADA (American Diabetes Association), vegetarians have a lower risk of heart disease, colorectal, ovarian and breast cancers, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension (high blood pressure). Three main types of vegetarians are: Total Vegetarian, Vegans, and Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians.

Total Vegetarians eat only plant food and don’t consume any animal foods, which include fish, eggs, dairy products, and honey. Vegans omit all animal products from their diets and lifestyle, which means no animal based products such as leather, wool and silks. Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians consume dairy products and the list grows from there by the variety and of protein sources they consume.

Contrary to popular belief, despite not eating any meat, vegetarians are able to meet their daily protein requirements from a variety of alternative protein sources that are not only healthy but pleasant to the palates as well.

Studies have shown a great deal of health benefits to those who choose to abstain from eating meat. These include lowering the risks of certain types of cancer, lower cholesterol and risk of cardio vascular disease largely due to the lack of saturated fats (fats found mainly in meat and certain plants) and an increase in the ingestion of unsaturated fats (fats found in most plants and fish). Saturated fats (in studies) increase your risk of obesity, cancer, and heart disease. Saturated fats are the main source of storage fats (fat storages like thighs, love handles, etc.). Sources of saturated fat are butter, processed meat products, cream, cakes, cheese, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, etc.

Unsaturated fats are divided into two categories – monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats can help lower your total blood cholesterol and possibly assist in the prevention of certain cancers and heart disease. Good sources of monounsaturated fats are olive oils, and nuts. Polyunsaturated fats have two categories, Omega6 and Omega3 fatty acids. Omega fats are essential to the formation of cells and the normal functioning of the nervous system. Great sources for the Omega fats are salmon, tuna, and sardines.

Just by making some of these adjustments and including some of these alternatives in your diet you will actually benefit from making better, well rounded dietary choices. If you eliminate meats altogether you will increase your health benefits and decrease your risks of other health related issues associated with the consumption of meat. You have a whole list and variety of foods to explore and enjoy. The world of the vegetarian and their recipes are no longer limited to that of the past. There are a variety of recipes from all over the world and updates to old favorites to choose from. They even make wonderful products that simulate meat’s texture, flavor, and appearance. Explore a new lifestyle that keeps you and your family healthier longer.