First of all, there are 5 different types of vegetarians.

• 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.