Which Diet is better - Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian?
First of all, there are 5 different types of vegetarians.
Advantages of Vegetarian foods are:
Advantages of Non-Vegetarian foods are:
On the other hand egg-white and most varieties of fish contain less fat, but are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals.
Vegetarian or non-vegetarian, the decision depends on various factors such as cultural or dietary habits of the family, personal preference, taste and avoidance of certain foods for health reasons. Whatever the case, a well-balanced diet supplying proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals should be taken.
- Those who don't eat animals (eg., Beef, Pork, Chicken or Rabbit etc.) or organs (eg. Brain, Kidneys etc)
- Those who eat only Fish and Dairy Products
- Those who don't eat Meat or Fish but will eat Eggs and drink Milk. These are the most common type of Vegetarians.
- Those who do not eat Meat or any animal product.
- There are a few who do not eat anything but Fruits. (that have fallen off the tree)
Advantages of Vegetarian foods are:
- They are easily chewable, especially for the elderly who have lost their teeth.
- Many elderly feel that Vegetarian food is more easily digestible.
- Vegetarian foods are cheaper than non-vegetarian foods.
- Some Vegetables can be eaten raw preventing the loss of nutrients while cooking.
- Vegetarian foods do not contain as much fat as non-vegetarian foods.
- Vegetarians should take care to include Soyabeans, Nuts, Seeds, Lentils, Mushrooms and so on to get a sufficient supply of proteins.
Advantages of Non-Vegetarian foods are:
- Non-vegetarian foods are rich in protein of high biological value and in Vitamin B complex, especially B12 which is not available in plant foods.
- Fish, especially the small varieties are a rich source of calcium.
- Egg-white is good source of protein and easily digested.
- The incidence of High Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, Obesity and High Cholesterol levels is found to be greater among non-vegetarians.
On the other hand egg-white and most varieties of fish contain less fat, but are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals.
Vegetarian or non-vegetarian, the decision depends on various factors such as cultural or dietary habits of the family, personal preference, taste and avoidance of certain foods for health reasons. Whatever the case, a well-balanced diet supplying proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals should be taken.