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Vegetarian eating is a diet that does not contain meat. There are three different types of vegetarian diets:
- Semi-vegetarian - Avoids red meats but includes chicken (pollo-vegetarian) and fish (pesco-vegetarian)
- Lacto-ovo vegetarian - Avoids red meats, chicken and fish but includes eggs and dairy products
- Vegan - Avoids all animal products including meats and meat byproducts
Some people choose to follow a vegetarian style of eating for religious or ethical reasons. Others do so for the health benefits. Eating more plant-based foods can reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes, some cancers and heart disease.
If you choose to follow a vegetarian diet, it is important to make sure you are eating foods that will give you the right nutrition. Meats are high in protein, iron and other essential nutrients. Nutritious alternatives to meats include peas, beans, lentils, tofu, soy, nuts and seeds.
Learn more about how to eat healthy the vegetarian way so that your body does not miss out on proper nutrition. Whether you are a vegetarian as an adult or a teen, these resources will help you know what nutrients are important throughout the lifecycle.
The Supreme Bean II recipe guide includes recipes made with Ontario White Pea Beans and is a great resource for people who are interested in replacing meat products with beans.
If you are thinking of trying a vegetarian way of eating, ask your doctor to send you to a dietitian for more information.