non vegetarian food is good for health essay

Non-Vegetarian Vs A Vegetarian Diet: Which One Is Better And Why?

Vegetarian diet can be divided into three parts that is total vegetarian, lacto vegetarian and lacto-ovo vegetarian..

The health benefits of a non-vegetarian diet

• Vegetarian Diet can be divided into three parts
• Vitamin B 12 and iron found in meat, fish, eggs and milk are in abundance
• A diet constituting of sea food like fish and eggs sharpen our intellect

Nowadays, we hear a lot of people moving towards vegetarianism - from celebrities to models and to a lot of health enthusiasts. For years there has been an on-going debate on whether or not a vegetarian diet is healthy and aids weight loss. A  Vegetarian diet can be divided into three parts that is - total vegetarian, lacto vegetarian and lacto-ovo vegetarian. A pure vegetarian diet includes fruits, nuts, vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes. The lacto vegetarian diet contains dairy products like milk, butter, cheese etc., and plant food. According to the Delhi based nutritionist, Pooja Malhotra, ''the lacto-vegetarian diets are very practical, easy to plan, wholesome diets.They certainly help in losing weight without compromising on nutrients. These are recommended for both adults and kids. '' On the other hand, lacto-ovo vegetarian food includes eggs and dairy products like milk, butter, cheese and so on. No doubt a vegetarian diet is full of vitamins and minerals, fiber, magnesium, unsaturated fat and folic acid. Such diet protects us from various diseases like diabetes, heart diseases, controls blood pressure, and prevents us from cancer and lower cholesterol levels. A non-vegetarian diet includes chicken, meat, eggs and fish. A non-vegetarian diet also has several health benefits because this type of food is rich in protein and vitamin B. Non-vegetarian food strengthens our muscles and helps them grow faster. It also helps to maintain body stamina and hemoglobin.

A vegetarian diet is full of vitamins and minerals Photo Credit: iStock

Also read:  National Nutrition Week 2018: Is A Vegetarian Diet Rich In Protein? Rujuta Diwekar Has The Answer

Pooja Malhotra also said '' Various researchers have shown the advantages of being vegetarian. Vegetarians have been shown to be at lower risk of heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cancer and such chronic ailments. Vegetarians also tend to have lower body weight and body mass index.'' She further added, '' Vegetarian diets are usually high in fibre and are loaded with phyto nutrients and antioxidants which help prevent heart diseases, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, constipation and colon cancer. On the other hand, a meat based  diet is usually high in saturated fat, salt; smoked varieties and charred meat also are a source of carcinogens.''

She concluded by saying that '' Many people now a days are adopting the flexitarian approach. A flexitarian diet is primarily a vegetarian diet with the occasional intake of meat. It's a realistic way to cut down meat intake and improve health. The choice of meat and the cooking method both are important.''

(Pooja Malhotra is a Delhi based Nutrionist and Author)

Also read:  Top 3 Must-Dos Of A Vegan Diet You Should Follow For Quick Weight Loss

Here are some advantages of a meat diet:

1 .  Protein:  A non-vegetarian diet which primarily includes meat, fish, eggs and dairy food is a good source of protein. However, protein can also be found in cereal products, nuts and pulses but these protein sources are incomplete.

2. Vitamin B 12:   Vitamin B 12 and iron found in meat, fish, eggs and milk are in abundance. It is very important for the formation of red blood cells and nerve fibres. If our bodies do not produce enough red blood cells it can lead to iron deficiency known as anaemia. The deficiency of iron or vitamin B 12 can result in fatigue.

3. Fitness:  Meat , chicken and fish along with eggs, protects our body from the excessive cold weather during winters. Eggs and fish provide us the essential vitamins, proteins, nutrients and minerals that are good for your overall health. 

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4.   Enhanced wisdom-  According to the medical science, a diet constituting of sea food like fish and eggs sharpen our intellect and promote the smooth functioning of our brain. This ultimately accelerates our wisdom. 

Also read:  The Perfect Vegetarian Diet Plan For Bodybuilders

A non-vegetarian diet which primarily includes meat, fish, eggs and dairy food is a good source of protein Photo Credit: iStock

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Non-Vegetarian Diet and Its Health Effects

Prewriting for the theses, one specific experience that helped to produce my opinion.

In the count down to the Copenhagen conference on Climate Change, there was heated debate around the globe on the need to stem global warming and what the best approach to the issue is. Personally, I always blamed those with big gas guzzlers, factories, and general deforestation around the globe for climatic change. I was reclining on a couch listening to a BBC Radio program known as “world have your say.”

I was attracted to the program because they were discussing global warming as a phenomenon. The question was, ‘is this phenomenon a hoax or a reality we need to address now.’ One caller into the program caught my attention; he suggested that to stem global warming, we should start by killing all cattle on the globe. This was not exciting because I really enjoy my meaty meals. However, his explanation got me thinking, and I am now convinced that we have to stop eating meat if we are to survive as inhabitants of the earth.

Reasons for or specific examples in support of my belief about the issue.

• The food an individual consumes determines his or her level of health. A diet of meat has more fat than a vegetarian diet. Overconsumption of fat is the reason why many Americans are struggling with overweight or obesity issues
• Livestock management is resource-intensive and contributes heavily to global warming. Becoming vegetation would help save the scarce resources on earth and avert climatic change.
• Vegetarian practices would contribute heavily to greener environments. Livestock consumes a lot of vegetation and also lead to deforestation for the purposes of creating pasture land. Becoming vegetarian would mean less consumption of vegetation and ultimately making the world greener.
• Health is more than just physical wellness. The choice to be vegetarian is necessitated by the need to leave this world better for the next generations. Knowing we have done all in our capacity towards this end is gratifying psychologically than otherwise.

At least two opposing viewpoints on the issue (which person or groups might Disagree with my position)

• Some people are generally opposed to diet restriction, arguing that such restrictions renege on human freedom.
• Some other people may think that personal habits have minimal contribution to global warming.
• Due to technological advances, if cow farms are releasing many emissions, we can rely on meat generated in labs rather than becoming vegetarians.

One reason to support each opposing viewpoint from C.

• Personal freedom is an important aspect of human living. We believe in people being free and making their own choices. Therefore, even in matters of diet, people should be left free.
• Eating the right quantity and quality of meat in itself is not harmless. The focus should be on what really is causing mishaps or problems.
• If it is possible to produce meat using other means, then there is no need for individuals to become vegetarian.

I want my peers to do in response to my argument

• I hope to help my peers understand the relation between meat-eating and global warming
• I hope to persuade them towards a change of eating habits that are irresponsible or contribute to putting human survival in jeopardy.

Becoming vegetarian is the most powerful contribution any of us can make towards mitigating climate change.

Plan of Argument

Diet is an expression of human freedom and responsibility

There is a direct link between meat-eating and global warming

• In consideration of health, we have to look beyond physical wellness to psychological and moral wellness.
• There are people who argue that diet restrictions or specifications are a ploy to renege on personal freedom.
• As discussed by Nestle Marion (2007, 82), In the case of obesity, many have been blaming the big food companies and fast foods for their problems. It is true that the proximity of food and food content plays a big role in accentuating obesity. The sugar content in the foods sold and the way of preparation have often been cited as great contributors to overweight problems. Food companies package food in an enticing way. Fast food cafes are all over, which means that one can access a bite whenever one feels like munching something. The center for consumer freedom looks at it very differently (Nestle, 2007, 58). Ultimately, it is the individual who picks whatsoever food and eats. The food companies do not force anyone to eat certain foods; they are just in business. Although the foregoing points are debatable, in essence, the capacity to choose what to eat from what not to eat is a true manifestation of personal freedom. We exercise true freedom when we have options. The capacity to choose one alluring option from another of closer magnitude due to well-stipulated reasons is what personal freedom is about.
• This is why, as Williams and Schlenker (2003) Indicates, food-related problems are referred to as eating disorders. Those who have an eating disorder or eat unhealthily are not exercising their personal freedom; they are sick. To find health, people often have to be helped to appreciate personal freedom towards being more careful in choosing what they eat. Healthy people choose food, not merely basing on taste but value. Therefore, the choice against meat or consideration to become vegetarian so as to safeguard generation to come from rough weather is only possible with a certain level of personal maturity.
• As stated by the International Vegetarian Union (2009), the food and agriculture organization of the United Nations has established that “livestock contribute more to global warming than transport, producing 18% of all global greenhouse gas emissions.” The world food organization is concerned with food security in the world. Its interest is not to posit any sloppy theories for partisan interest but rather to guide the world towards food security. When it proclaims that meat processing and livestock rearing is a number one contributor to global warming, there must be a level of acceptable evidence supporting the claim.
• ABC news (2006) quotes scientists who carried a research and concluded that what people ate contributed to global warming more than the gas guzzlers that people drive around.

Houghton (1997, 141-146) discusses in depth why we need be concerned about global warming. The idea is that although we of this generation will not suffer the bigger effects of global warming, we have to consider the generations to come. He calls us to a moral consideration of being fair to the generations to come.

Lodge (2000) discussing the moral theory of Plato shows clearly the interconnection between the physical, moral and emotional self in guaranteeing an individual a healthy existence. It follows that health goes beyond physical well being to encompass moral and emotional self. Unless we are attentive to moral considerations, there is no way we are to be a healthy society.

Global warming is a reality that needs urgent responses. Politicians, scientists and activists are doing their bit. However, much ground can be covered if individuals took personal initiative and responsibility towards alleviating the aggravating effects of climatic change. Becoming vegetarian or lowering meat consumption seems to be a simple choice all human being can take which will radically contribute towards lowering carbon emissions.

Final Draft of the Essay

I recently listened to a radio program that awakened me to the reality that the diets we take as individuals have an impact on the earth as a whole. Diet is often understood in the light of being mean towards oneself and not enjoying what would otherwise be yummy dishes. This conception is erroneous and leads to formation of attitudes towards foods. Often things are as we think them to be. For example, the same event is experienced differently by different people.

This results from people thinking differently about the same happening. Change anything, our way of thinking about it has to change or we have to think further. Yummy-ness as an attribute of food is more of a conception in the mind than a reality. Proper choice of diet is a manifestation of personal freedom rather than a manifestation of limitations to personal freedom. As we all know, freedom always comes with responsibility.

In 2006, Food and Agricultural organization released a report linking meat consumption and global warming or climatic change. In the report, it was argued clearly that the process of producing food for livestock is very labor and resource intensive. Some of the required resources or materials come in the form of herbicides and fertilizers. According to the report, as discussed by the international vegetation union (2009), it takes more that 10 billion Kg of fertilizer to produce animal feed on the US farms. The amount of food a cow consumes on a daily basis is too much compared to what a single human being consumes.

Much of the food sold around the world is processed food. The procedure of processing food sold around the world takes more energy than the energy in the food itself. Somehow, the world can not avoid relying on processed food. However, relying on crops as a source of food is cheaper than relying on meat. Research, as presented by ABC News in 2006, indicates that Animal proteins require more energy to process than plant proteins; animal protein production takes ten times more energy to produce.

One would argue that the whole population becoming vegetarian would mean the extinction of livestock; such an argument has some weight. However, it is my take that human beings will continue to rear livestock, not for consumption but maybe as pets.

A shift in the reason why livestock is reared would definitely reduce the number of animals each individual may want to rear. People will devote more energy to the production of plants that are nutritious and highly recommended. Loosing livestock would be a better option than hanging on them, aggravating climate change, polar bears becoming extinct and in the end, the survival of human beings and livestock being challenged.

Already crop failures all around the world are on the rise. Crop failure means even the livestock has no food. Generally, the whole food web is disturbed or broken by crop failure. How is this related to need to become vegetarian? Of course, one would argue that as some scientists have suggested, meat can be generated in the Laboratories. How safe is meat generated in laboratories? I am convinced that strange diseases especially cancers are on the increase as a result of human experiments.

The meat generation in laboratories would need or require use of energy. As already discussed, food processing uses more energy than energy in the food itself. The generation of meat in the laboratory would definitely require use of more energy than what is applied in the processing. Therefore, generation of good through lab cultures threatens human survival even more than the global warming we are alarmed about.

The more livestock reared on earth, the more methane and carbon emissions. The cow farms in the US contribute substantially to the emission of carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. The cow farms thrive on the money of those of us who consume meat. In some parts of the world, deforestation is done in the name of affording livestock pasture land. Trees are crucial in sustaining life because they purify the air by absorbing carbon while releasing oxygen into the air.

If the whole population chose not to eat meat, the cow farms would be deprived of cash that is enabling them to thrive. Some people may contend that the contribution of personal habits towards global warming is minimal. However, it is the cumulative contributions of individuals that are aggravating the situation. The need to consider personal habits in relation to global warming can not be wished away; all measures towards averting this danger are better engaged now or never. Tsunamis or hurricanes have increased considerably and the danger of another one occurring looms every day. The countries at sea level are likely to be submerged sooner than imagined if water in the ocean continues to rise.

In conclusion, when considering the health issue, our focus can not be limited to physical wellness of individuals. One would argue that by eating the right quantity and quality of meat, one runs no health risk. Eating the right quantity would mean eating less meat or more vegetarian diets, which is what I am advocating for. Meat has more fat than plants and fat is the cause of all obesity related complications. However, moral health requires that we consider the ultimate consequences of our actions. For the human race becoming vegetarian is not a question of mere good health and ill health, it is actually a choice between life and death.

The process of acquiring meat which consists in having cow farms, then meat processing plants, then meat handling or selling plants does more harm to life on earth than sustaining life. Rearing cattle requires large tracts of land on which the cattle graze or from which their plant is grown. Often such land is acquired through deforestation activities. The livestock farms themselves are a great source of harmful emissions due to animal waste management processes. In solidarity with generations to come, becoming vegetarian and encouraging others towards the same is the only choice we have as individuals.

Reference List

ABC News. (2006). Meat-Eaters Aiding Global Warming?   New Research Suggests What You Eat As Important As What You Drive . Web.

Houghton J. T. (1997). Global Warming: The Complete Briefing . 2 nd Ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

International Vegetarian Union. (2009). Meat Eating and Global Warming . Web.

Lodge, R.C. (2000). Plato’s Theory of Ethics: The Moral Criterion and the Highest Good . New York: Routledge.

Nestle M. (2007). Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health  2 nd Ed. California: University of California Press.

Williams, S. R., Schlenker D. E. (2003). Essentials of Nutrition and Diet Therapy . 8th Ed. Oklahoma: Elsevier Health Sciences.

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Impact of Climate Change on Global Health

• Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian

“To eat is a necessity, but to eat wisely is an art,” as we’ve all heard. Experts recommend that you eat to fuel your body rather than to feed your emotions. Since the dawn of human culture, the argument between vegetarians and non-vegetarians has raged on. The discussion appears to never stop, and it becomes a source of concern; or, more accurately, a political agenda during election season.

The long-running debate regarding the inadequacy of a vegetarian diet against the dangers of a non-vegetarian diet is both accurate and misleading at the same time. But, before you reach a conclusion, have you observed that people get sick more from an inadequate diet or overeating, as well as from leading sedentary lives, than from what they eat? According to WHO reports, diabetes and heart disease (lifestyle diseases) kill more people in India than accidents or infectious infections.

There has been a lot of dispute about which diet is best, vegetarian or non-vegetarian. While vegetarian diets have their advantages, they also have their drawbacks. Non-vegetarian diets have their own set of advantages and have long been practiced by athletes in high-performance sports. It’s high in a variety of essential minerals and amino acids. Also, it is thought that humans evolved on a meat-based diet. Because agriculture is a relatively new phenomena, it is thought that humans were largely a meat-eating population prior to the arrival of cereals.

1. A non-vegetarian diet has a lot of full protein. Non-vegetarian foods meet the amino acid profile, which demands that any food item contain all nine non-essential amino acids that the body cannot produce. From meat to curd to milk-derived paneer, all animal products are excellent sources of complete protein.

2. Animal products are also high in healthy fats, which raise HDL levels and lower LDL levels in the body. The lipids included in egg yolks are extremely beneficial to the body. Fat is also found in some hormones in the body, such as sex hormones.

3. Iron and vitamin B12 are also abundant in non-vegetarian foods. A lack of these two elements can lead to a lack of energy, weariness, and other issues. Animal products will provide your body with optimal amounts of these components if you include them in your diet.

4. All non-vegetarian foods are also particularly thermogenic since they take a long time to digest, requiring a lot of energy from the body. As a result, the BMR rises and the body’s fat-burning capacity increases. As a result, anyone planning a fat-loss diet should include a high-protein diet as well as some fibers, which will help to extend the time it takes for meals to be digested.

5. A variety of animal products are high in calcium. Calcium is an important mineral for bone, teeth, and nails, among other things.

• Non-vegetarian diet

A non-vegetarian diet includes all plant foods as well as animal foods and by-products such as meat, chicken, and fish, among other things.

This diet provides a lot of protein and is a good source of B vitamins, particularly B12. Certain amino acids are not produced by our bodies on their own, and a non-vegetarian diet is high in them. Although the risk of anemia is reduced, non-vegetarians are at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and so on.The amount of fiber in this product is low, which makes it difficult to digest. Excessive meat consumption causes the development of free radicals in our bodies, which are the primary cause of cancer.

• Which One Is Better for Health whether Vegetable or Non-Vegitable?

Non-vegetarians are more likely to contract life-threatening diseases, but vegetarians are not immune. It’s safe to estimate that just about 10% of vegetarians eat a balanced diet. We all know that as our lifestyles have changed, our eating habits have shifted from fresh to fast food, and the risk of becoming unhealthy has equalized in both. Having a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and a moderate amount of meat is beneficial to one’s health.

If you’re a vegetarian, you can replace the beef with mushrooms, lentils, or soya. The sentences above create a proposition to one another, however they are based on personal experience. It would be unfair to make a judgment about which diet is superior because, regardless of diet type, everyone has a distinct constitution, metabolism, tolerances, and intolerances for various foods.

Adoptinghealthy – Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian,Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian tips,Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian,Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian meals,Benefits Of Non-Vegetarian receipes

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Meatless meals: The benefits of eating less meat

Plant-based proteins offer many health benefits and can be less expensive than meat. One way to get these benefits is to choose a meatless meal once or twice a week.

People decide to eat less meat for many reasons. You may want to cut out meat for health, ethical, religious, cultural or environmental reasons. But it can be hard to make changes to your diet and still serve healthy meals.

Why not start by serving meatless meals once or twice a week?

Meatless meals are built around beans, lentils, vegetables and whole grains. Plant-based proteins offer many health benefits. Eating more plant-based proteins can help your budget too. They tend to be less pricy than meat.

The health factor

A plant-based diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, peas, lentils and nuts. It's rich in fiber, vitamins and other nutrients. And people who don't eat meat, called vegetarians, generally eat fewer calories and less fat. They also tend to weigh less. And they have a lower risk of heart disease than nonvegetarians do.

Research shows that people who eat red meat are at a higher risk of death from heart disease, stroke or diabetes. Processed meats also make the risk of death from these diseases go up.

And what you don't eat also can harm your health. Diets low in nuts, seeds, seafood, fruits and vegetables can also make your health risks go up. The good news is that even eating less red and processed meat has a positive effect on health.

How much protein do you need?

Most Americans get enough protein in their diets. The recommended daily intake of protein for adults is about 50 grams.

Of course, your protein needs will vary with age, weight, health, pregnancy, activity level and other factors. Adults need about 5 to 7 ounces of protein-rich foods a day. And keep in mind, you can choose from more than one protein source.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends choosing a variety of proteins. These include eggs, low-fat milk and products made from it, beans, peas, lentils, soy products, and unsalted nuts and seeds.

If you're eating a higher calorie protein source, stick to smaller portions. For example, enjoy just 1/2 ounce of nuts, or 1 to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.

The guidelines also suggest replacing protein foods that are higher in solid fats with choices that are lower in solid fats and calories. The fats in meat, poultry, eggs and high-fat dairy products such as cheese are called solid fats. The fats in seafood, nuts and seeds are called oils.

Try meatless meals once or twice a week

You don't have to get rid of all meat all at once. Instead, try easing into meatless meals. Think about going meatless one day a week. You may find you'll want to add more days.

If you don't like the idea of a whole day without meat, start with a couple of meatless dinners each week. Plan meals that use your favorite recipes that are typically meatless, such as lasagna, soup, pasta and vegetable salad. Or try substituting the following protein-rich foods for meat in your favorite recipes:

• Beans, peas and lentils can be added to casseroles, soups and salads.
• Vegetarian refried beans can be used instead of meat in burritos and tacos.
• Tofu can be added tostir-fry dishes.

When meat is on the menu

When your meals include meat, don't overeat. Choose lean cuts and stay away from oversized portions. A serving of protein is 3 ounces, about the size of a deck of cards.

An easy guide to balance your meal is to divide your plate. Proteins should take up no more than one-fourth of your plate. Vegetables and fruits should cover half your plate. Whole grains make up the rest.

Flexing for your health

The term "flexitarian" describes someone who eats mostly plant-based foods. But the person occasionally eats meat, poultry and fish.

Plant-forward is a style of eating that includes meat. But meat is not the star of the meal. This kind of healthy eating is key to the Mediterranean diet. It's also key to other cuisines, such as some Asian, Ethiopian, Indian and Middle Eastern diets. These diets limit red meat. And they focus on fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, whole grains and healthy fat. This type of diet has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Why not work on your flexibility and start enjoying some healthy benefits?

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• 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• Going meatless once a week. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/vegetarian-and-special-diets/going-meatless-once-a-week. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• Vary your protein routine. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/tip-sheet/vary-your-protein-routine. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• Protein foods. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/protein-foods#mp-container-706352. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• Parker HW, et al. Diet quality of vegetarian diets compared with nonvegetarian diets: A systematic review. Nutrition Reviews. 2019; doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuy067.
• Craig WJ, et al. The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals. Nutrients. 2021; doi:3390/nu13114144.
• Picking healthy proteins. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/meat-poultry-and-fish-picking-healthy-proteins. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• How does plant-forward (plant-based) eating benefit your health? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/how-does-plant-forward-eating-benefit-your-health. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• The benefits of beans and legumes. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/the-benefits-of-beans-and-legumes. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• What is the Mediterranean diet? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/mediterranean-diet. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
• Thrifty food plan, 2021. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.fns.usda.gov/cnpp/usda-food-plans-cost-food-reports. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022.
• Dietary Reference Intakes for energy, carbohydrate, fiber, fat, fatty acids, cholesterol, protein, and amino acids. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. https://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?isbn=0309085373. Accessed Nov. 3, 2022.
• Zeratsky KA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Nov. 3, 2022.

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Physique Global

Is non-vegetarian food good or bad for health?

A lot of debate has gone in deciding as to which diet stands better, vegetarian or non-vegetarian.

While vegetarian diets may have their benefits non-vegetarian diet also has its own set of benefits and has been followed by performance-driven sports for long now.

It is known to be rich in various vital nutrients and amino acids. Also, a meat-based diet is said to be the one that humans evolved  with.

As agriculture is a recent phenomenon it is believed that humans were primarily a meat-eating population than grains.

· Non-veg diet is a great source of complete protein. The amino acid profile that requires any food item to possess all the 9 non-essential amino acids that the body can’t make is present in non-veg food.

Every animal product is a great source of complete protein right from Meat to curd to paneer which is derived from milk.

· Animal products are also a great source of good fats that increase your HDL thereby reducing your LDL in the body.

The fats found in the egg yolk are of great help to the body. Some of the hormones in the body like the sex hormones are also made up of fat.

· Non-vegetarian food sources are also a great source of iron and vitamin B12. A deficiency in these two elements might result in less energy, fatigue, etc.

Including animal products in your diet will result in supplying your body with optimum quantities of these elements.

· All non-veg foods are also very thermogenic as they take time to be digested, which results in the body using up a lot of energy for their digestion.

The result is an elevated BMR level and high-fat burning capacities in the body. Therefore, for anyone who plans to go on a fat loss diet, it is advisable to go on a High Protein along with some fibers which will add to the further digestion time of food.

· A lot of animal products are great sources of calcium. Calcium is one of the most essential minerals for bone, teeth, nails, etc. in the body.

#physiqueglobal   #food   #diet   #vegetarian   #nutrition

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Argumentative Essay On Health and Ethical Reasons for Vegetarianism

Type of paper: Argumentative Essay

Topic: Diet , Human , Animals , Health , Vegetarianism , Nutrition , Food , Ethics

Words: 1600

Published: 01/06/2020

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Vegetarianism, in essence, is the voluntary abstinence of a person from eating meat products. Vegetarianism has been shown to have tremendous health benefits as a practice, and is often employed as a more ethical and sustainable diet than carnivorous diets. It is a preferable lifestyle compared to being carnivorous or omnivorous, as it also means taking a stand against animal slaughter.

There are many different facets of vegetarianism, but the activity itself has been found in many cultures throughout human history. In Western cultures, in particular, it is finding significant support, as more and more people in America and other countries choose to eat only vegetables (and optionally dairy products). There are many different kinds of vegetarianism; in essence, many people fall along a spectrum of vegetarianism that extends from semi-vegetarian (infrequent eating of meat) to pescetarian (eating only fish, seafood and vegetables) to full vegetarian. Other types of vegetarianism that exist are, ovo vegetarianism (eating eggs, but no dairy products, and vice versa to laco vegetarianism). Veganism is one particularly popular type of vegetarianism, in which milk, honey, eggs and all other animal products are strictly avoided. Raw veganism focuses strictly on uncooked fruits and vegetables. These types of vegetarianism, in particular, emphasize a prohibition on processed foods, other products that use animal ingredients. Figure 1 denotes the difference in servings one requires in order to get proper nutrition, based on these alternative types of vegetarianism:

(Dept. of Nutrition, 2008)

The practice of vegetarianism itself has many health benefits. For instance, due to the restriction of foods to vegetables and fruits, wiser and more selective food choices are made overall, thus increasing the nutrient intake. Fruits and vegetables add color to the plate, are rich in fiber and less expensive than meat. Vegetarianism has been shown to dramatically decrease rates of death from ischaemic heart disease by as much as 30 per cent (Key et al. 516). Those who participate in vegetarian diets also have lower saturated fat levels, as well as lower cholesterol, high blood pressure and more. Statistically, there are a significant number of conditions and diseases that are less likely to occur in vegetarians than in carnivores: heart disease, hypertension, renal disease, diabetes and more are found in fewer incidences among those who are vegetarian (White and Frank 465). Women who have become vegetarians have had significantly fewer incidences of gall stone development (Pixley et al. 12). Therefore a vegetarian diet brings with it good health and many benefits.

The particular makeup of a vegetarian diet leads to an intake of rich nutrients and minerals in those who follow it. Vegetarians, on the whole, consume fewer calories in food energy than omnivores, due to the smaller levels of fat and protein that are taken in their overall diet (White and Frank, 466). Vegetarians have been shown to have substantially adequate vitamin intake for most essential vitamins, including riboflavin, thiamine, and vitamins A, C and E (466). However, some potential deficits for vegetarian diets include levels of iron and zinc, which are typically provided through meat, but, these can also be acquired through some vegetarian food sources and supplements. So as far as nutrients are concerned, a vegetarian diet has a good rating.

Besides health reasons, there are those who become vegetarians for moral or ethical reasons also. Modern vegetarianism, as it is understood, is thought of as a means of achieving hypothesized nutritional superiority (Worsley and Skrzypiec 151). In essence, people believe that it is more ethical and nutritional to become a vegetarian. Animal cruelty is perpetuated by the prevalence of carnivorism in the human diet. In order to meet this demand, the food industry has started performing dubious practices including corralling of chickens, cows and pigs into inhumane environments and conditions. Many vegetarians feel that the means of production for meat is bad and unethical, and as a result do not engage in that part of the supply cycle in buying meat. Furthermore, many believe that this meat production is also bad for the environment, due to the changing of land to accommodate large populations of animals (Worsley and Skrzypiec 163). Animal slaughter causes environment pollution and waste, thus leading many to stick with their vegetarian diet.

The moral center of vegetarianism may stem from the utilitarian perspective; there is a huge connection between the two philosophies (Singer 325). According to the utilitarian philosophy, all actions must be taken to achieve the greatest level of happiness, emphasizing actions taken towards things of the greatest use, or utility. Animals are given moral standing through the principle of utilitarianism; "no being should have its interests disregarded or discounted merely because it is not human" (Singer 329). Even if one does not subscribe to the idea that animals should be treated with the same care and respect that is afforded to people, there is a practical reason for wanting to stop animal cruelty. Many vegetarians believe animals, as sentient beings, which do not deserve to be killed if there is a way to avoid it. The ethics surrounding eating meat, and of killing to acquire food for survival (bioethics), often inspire vegetarians, as they object either to the act itself, or how the meat industry produces meat in an inhumane way. Furthermore, they believe that not contributing to the meat market and meat industry, will help the environment, provide greater support for one's health, and make a political statement toward more human practices for animals (Worsley and Skrzypiec 163).

Of course, there are aesthetic reasons for taking up the vegetarian lifestyle as well. Many people believe that, due to the lower fat and protein intake that a vegetarian diet has, they will be able to lose weight and stay thin in a better way, thus improving their appearance (Worsley and Skrzypiec 166). This attitude, while not necessarily tied to any specific health or ethical concern, is still a chief guiding reason for adopting this lifestyle.

Counterarguments for the vegetarian lifestyle are many, and some of them carry valid points. For example, it can be quite dangerous to engage in a fully vegetarian diet without figuring out alternative means for acquiring proteins and vital nutrients which are not present in a vegetarian diet alone. Many human beings get their protein and fatty acids (needed nutrients for human health) from meats. Traditional concerns about the vegetarian diet include the possible inadequacy of the intake of protein and eight essential amino acids. However, according to research, vegetarians typically receive adequate protein through the eating of grains, nuts, legumes and other protein-rich vegetarian foods (White and Frank 466).

Furthermore, it is stated that it would be quite difficult for vegetarianism to make the mark on the meat industry that its community desires. Meat consumption in the United States, for example, is still extremely high, as Figure 2 below illustrates:

(Vegan Outreach, 2012).

However, given these figures, it is easy to see that the need for stricter and less meat-centric diets is strongly recommended. If for no other reason than at least to get meat consumption down to maintain sustainable numbers for land animals that are normally raised and slaughtered for food. Furthermore, since 2008 there have been 1.1 billion fewer land animals slaughtered for meat, due to the spread of vegetarianism and its increased awareness (Vegan Outreach, 2012). Towards that end, it is possible to foster better practices in meat production and consumption through the acquisition of a vegetarian lifestyle.

In conclusion, vegetarianism is a viable and extremely beneficial diet, both for human health and ethical reasons. Those who engage in vegetarian diets consume less fat and calories, while also having reduced saturated fat and cholesterol levels, accumulating to an overall better level of health than that experienced by omnivores. Furthermore, the actualization of a vegetarian lifestyle is seen as a greater moral imperative, keeping in mind the welfare of those animals that are slaughtered and mistreated to provide meat products to humans. Despite the concerns that vegetarians lack proper protein, vegetarians can still get all the proper nutrition they require, while still maintaining ethical practices in cultivating and selecting their food.

Works Cited

Appleby, P.; Thorogood, M.; Mann, J.; Key, T. "Low body mass index in non-meat eaters: the possible roles of animal fat, dietary fibre and alcohol". Journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity 22 (5): 454–460. 1998. Department of Nutrition. The Vegetarian Food Pyramid. Department of Nutrition, 2008. Fessler, Daniel M.T., Arguello, Alexander P., Mekdara, Jeanette M., and Ramon Macias. "Disgust sensitivity and meat consumption: a test of an emotivist account of moral vegetarianism." Appetite vol. 41, pp. 31-41. 2003. Key et al. "Mortality in vegetarians and non-vegetarians: detailed findings from a collaborative analysis of 5 prospective studies." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 70 (3): 516S. Pixlet, Fiona, Wilson, David, McPherson, Klim and Jim Mann. "Effect of Vegetarianism on development of gall stones in women." British Medical Journal vol. 291, 1985. pp. 11- 12. Singer, Peter. "Utilitarianism and Vegetarianism." Philosophy and Public Affairs vol. 9, no. 4, pp. 325-337. 1980. Vegan Outreach. "1.1 Billion, and Counting" Vegan Outreach. January 18, 2012. <http://www.veganoutreach.org/enewsletter/20120118.html>. White, Randall, and Erica Frank. "Health Effects and Prevalence of Vegetarianism." West J Med vol. 160, pp. 465-471. 1994. Worsley, Anthony and Grace Skrzypiec. "Teenage Vegetarianism: Prevalence, Social and Cognitive Contexts." Appetite vol. 30, pp. 151-170. 1998.

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Vegetarianism Essay

This is a model  vegetarianism essay .

As I always stress, you should  read the question very carefully  before you answer it to make sure you are writing about the right thing.

Take a look at the question:

Every one of us should become a vegetarian because eating meat can cause serious health problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Staying on topic

If you rush to start writing and don't analyse the question and brainstorm some ideas you may include the wrong information.

There are religious or moral arguments for not eating meat, but if you discuss those you will be going off topic .

This question is specifically about the health problems connected to eating meat.

So you must discuss in your answer what some of these problems are and if you think there are real health risks or not.

Knowing about the topic

And don't get worried that you do not know much about diet and health.

As part of your IELTS study it will help if you know the basics of most topics such as some health vocabulary in this case, but you are not expected to be an expert on nutrition.

Remember, you are being judged on your English ability and your ability to construct an argument in a coherent way, not to be an expert in the subject matter. So relax and work with

Organisation

In this vegetarianism essay, the candidate disagrees with the statement, and is thus arguing that everyone does not need to be a vegetarian.

The essay has been organised in the following way:

Body 1: Health issues connected with eating meat (i.e. arguments in support of being a vegetarian Body 2: Advantages of eating meat

Now take a look at the model answer.

Model Essay

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

IELTS Vegetarianism Essay - Sample Answer

Vegetarianism is becoming more and more popular for many people, particularly because of the harm that some people believe meat can cause to the body. However, I strongly believe that it is not necessary for everybody to be a vegetarian.

Vegetarians believe that meat is unhealthy because of the diseases it has been connected with. There has been much research to suggest that red meat is particularly bad, for example, and that consumption should be limited to eating it just a few times a week to avoid such things as cancer. Meats can also be high in saturated fats so they have been linked to health problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

However, there are strong arguments for eating meat. The first reason is that as humans we are designed to eat meat, which suggests it is not unhealthy, and we have been eating meat for thousands of years. For example, cavemen made hunting implements so that they could kill animals and eat their meat. Secondly, meat is a rich source of protein which helps to build muscles and bones. Vegetarians often have to take supplements to get all the essential vitamins and minerals. Finally, it may be the case that too much meat is harmful, but we can easily limit the amount we have without having to cut it out of our diet completely.

To sum up, I do not agree that everyone should turn to a vegetarian diet. Although the overconsumption of meat could possibly be unhealthy, a balanced diet of meat and vegetables should result in a healthy body.

(264 words)

You should begin by intoducing the topi c. The introduction in this vegetarianism essay begins by mentioning vegetarians and the possible harm of eating meat .

It then goes on to the thesis statement , which makes it clear what the candidate's opinion is.

The first body paragraph has a topic sentence which makes it clear that the paragraph is going to address the possible health issues of eating meat.

Some reasons and examples are then given to support this.

The second body paragraph then has a topic sentence which makes it clear that the main idea is now about the arguments for eating meat .

The conclusion in this vegetarianism essay then repeats the opinion and gives the candidates final thoughts.

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Vegetarian Diet: A Boon or Bane for Health?

Varshil Mehta

Search for the other articles from the author in: Google Scholar | PubMed | JMRI Journal

A vegetarian diet is a kind of diet that involves little or non-consumption of any meat or its products, including meat from cattle, poultry, and fish and / or any other animal. There are many types of vegetarian diet which exist today, but none follows a specific pattern. This mode of food is gradually gaining popularity all over the world. One of the largest vegetarian communities lives in India (35.71%). A large percentage of people also thrive on the vegetarian diet in countries like USA (3.78%), UK (8.57%), Germany (9.02%) and Italy (9.67%). The numbers are shown in figure 1 [ 1 ].

Most of the vegetarians follow the vegetarian diet due to their religious beliefs. Most of them follow a strict pattern of veganism, involving the complete abandonment of food associated with animals, including milk, poultry eggs and other products which are made from animals or its products. Particularly, Jains (People who follow Jainism) follow even tougher diet which not only involves strict vegetarian diet but also involves non-consumption of anything which is grown underground such as potatoes and onions. Below, in figure 2 , different and most commonly practiced forms of vegetarian diets are presented with a brief explanation for each of them.

At the moment, various European nutrition advice associations condone that a vegetarian/vegan diet can be harmless and nutritionally sound, if it consists of a balanced diet. However, it should include the intake of dietary supplements, especially during pregnancy and lactation. As an example, the German Academy of Nutrition and Dietology, recommends an approximate diet of a vegan, which can be used to overcome the problems associated with the deficiency of certain macro- and micro-nutrients [ 2 ].

Benefits of having a vegetarian meal

Adopting a vegetarian diet can definitely lead to a better health. A vegetarian diet is generally associated with an increase in fiber, folic acid, magnesium, vitamins C and E, unsaturated fat, and countless phytochemicals content.

Low risk of diabetes: In a recent meta-analysis conducted by Lee and Park, concluded that a vegetarian diet is inversely proportionate to the risk of developing diabetes [ 3 ].

Reduction of blood cholesterol levels: Another such meta-analysis conducted by Wang et al., concluded that vegetarian diets could effectively lower blood concentrations of Total-Cholesterol, Low Density Lipoprotein‐C, High Density Lipoprotein‐C, and non-High Density Lipoprotein‐C [ 4 ].

Improvement of Mood: A recent study showed that by restricting meat and its products, mood improvements did happen. This is because that the vegetarian diet has low Arachidonic acid (associated with mood disturbances) [ 5 ].

Reduction in risk of developing cataracts and kidney stones: A recent study showed that by replacing the non-vegetarian diet with the vegetarian diet, will result in a higher urine pH and thus low chances of developing kidney stones [ 6 ]. Furthermore, a study by the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine at the University of Oxford has shown a strong positive association between the risk of developing cataracts and consumption of meat products. Hence, vegetarian diet could also help in reducing the risk of developing cataracts [ 7 ].

Reduction in risk of developing cardiovascular and cancer diseases: Furthermore, a recent meta-analysis by Dinu M et al., concluded that vegetarianism is quite helpful, in reducing the incidence rate of diseases like cardiovascular (reduction in risk by 7%) and cancer diseases (reduction by 8%). The most important benefit is in reducing the risk of mortality and morbidity of the coronary heart disease (reduction by 25%). The study findings are shown in the below table 1 [ 8 ].

Also, it should be remembered that those who stick to vegetarianism usually change not only the diet but also the way of life, which means that they often do not have bad habits such as smoking or alcohol abuse and are more physically active, etc [ 9 ]. Hence, a vegetarian often have a low cholesterol level, appropriate weight, normal blood pressure, and are less prone to develop cardiovascular and cancer diseases. The benefits are depicted in figure 3 .

However, there are some concerns as well which needs to be taken care of. Vegetarian meal lacks many nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, proteins, calcium etc. Hence, it is of utmost importance, that a well planned and appropriate diet plan should be followed. The nutrients which are known to be deficient in the vegetarian meal should be supplemented along with the food in any other form like vitamin B12 capsules. But, as we weigh the benefits vs. risk, vegetarian diet comes out to be a winner for health if the deficient is supplemented along side. One can follow the diet plan as recommended by the German Academy of Nutrition and Dietology, which can be used to overcome the problems associated with the deficiency of certain macro- and micro-nutrients [ 2 ].

Vegetarian diet is a boon to health. It can help a person to have a lower cholesterol level, lower weight, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It also helps in preventing the deadly chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. It may also help in prolonging the longevity. However, if the diet is not planned properly, it may be proved to be a bane to the health. Hence, more studies should be conducted to prove the beneficial effects of the vegetarian diet. In my opinion, I would suggest everyone to consider a vegetarian diet as an option to the adjuvant therapy if some is at a borderline of developing any of the diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, kidney stones, hyperlipidemia, and cataracts or is suffering from depression.

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Vegetarianism Health Benefits Essay

Introduction, obesity and overweight, strong bones, heart disease, cancer protection, more energy, diabetes prevention.

The term “vegetarianism” may be understood differently among different people. However, the vegetarian diet generally does not include the consumption of meat. There exist various types of vegetarian practices; ranging from the most strict to the less strict one. The most restrict group consists of vegans.

This group consumes only those foods that come from plants and these include the grains, nuts, beans, fruits and vegetables. The other group consists of the lacto-vegetarians and these ones consume dairy products on top of the foods from the plants. The third group consists of “Lacto-ovo-vegetarians” who are similar to the lacto-vegetarians but they also consume the eggs in addition.

The other group is the “pesco-vegetarians who eat similar foods to those eaten by the “lacto-ovo-vegetarians” but on top of these, they also eat fish. The least strict group consists of the “partial-vegetarians” and these consume all kinds of foods apart from the red meat. People decide to become vegetarians for a variety of motives. There are those who want to live longer, to live healthy lives, or play their part in the society of bringing down the level of pollution.

This paper is going to look at the health benefits one can obtain by becoming or being a vegetarian. It is going to be argued that; Being a vegetarian is good for health since it leads to the prevention of obesity and overweight, developing strong bones, prevention of heart disease, having cancer protection, having diabetes prevention and also enables one to have more energy in the body.

The paper is going to be arranged in sub-topics with each of them supporting the argument. The conclusion section is going to give a summary of the main points in the discussion.

Being a vegetarian enables one to reduce chances of becoming obese and overweight. It is pointed out that “64 percent of adults and 15 percent of children aged 6 to 19 are overweight and are at risk of weight-related ailments including heart disease, stroke and diabetes” (“Why go veg?”, 2012, p.1).

A research that was carried out between the period starting from the year 1986 up to the year 1992 by the director and president of the “Preventive Medicine Research Institute”, Dean Ornish, in California established that the people who were overweight and followed a vegetarian diet and which was low in fat were able to lose, on average, twenty four pounds within the first year and were able to keep off that weight five years thereafter (“Why go veg?”, 2012, p.1).

They were able to lose weight without engaging in counting the carbs or calories and also with no engagement in the measurement of the portions or having a feeling of hunger (“Why go veg?”, 2012).

Becoming a vegetarian enables one to build strong bones. Every time there is no adequate calcium in one’s blood in the body, a person’s body will have to seep the calcium from the bone that is there. Following this, the metabolic consequence will be that one’s skeletons will turn out to be permeable and in the course of time become weak.

A larger number of the practitioners in the healthcare field propose that a person should engage in increasing his or her calcium ingestion through the manner in which nature designed and this is through foods. The foods as well supply nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium and phosphorous among others which are essential to enable the body to carry out absorption as well as utilization of calcium.

It is reported that “people who are mildly lactose-intolerant can often enjoy small amounts of dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and lactose-free milk” (“Why go veg?”, 2010, p.1).However, in case one may avoid the dairy products altogether, they can still obtain healthful calcium dose from the “dry beans, soymilk, and dark green vegetable such as broccoli, kale, collards and turnip greens” (“Why go veg?”, 2012, p.1).

By one becoming a vegetarian, they reduce the risks of getting heart disease. It is pointed out that eating vegetables and fruits on a regular basis brings down the level of the risk of “ischemic heart disease” (Craig, 20034, p.1).

Following a survey that was conducted sometime back which involved surveying forty seven thousand Italian people, it was established that “persons in the highest tertile of vegetable consumption had a 21 and 11 % reduced risk of myocardial infarction and angina, respectively, compared with those in the lowest tertile of vegetable consumption” (Kafatos, A., et al, 1997, p.1882).

Moreover, the findings that were presented following a study that was conducted in Britain indicated that the day to day eating of fresh fruits contributed towards having a twenty-four percent decrease in the mortality that results from heart disease as well as a thirty-two percent decrease in mortality resulting from the “cerebrovascular disease”, in comparison to less regular eating of fruit. It was further established that the day to day raw salad eating contributed to having a reduction of twenty-six percent in deaths resulting form the heart disease (Key, et al, 1996, p.777).

Another study involved investigating the lifelong vegetarians; it was found out that this group of people had a twenty-four percent “lower incident and lifelong vegans had a 57 percent lower incident of coronary heart disease compared to meat eaters” (Thorogood, et al., 1987, p.352).

There are a number of factors in vegetables and fruits which offer achievable protection against the cardiovascular disease. Among these factors we have “folic acid, dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, carotenoids, phystosterols, flavonoids, and other polyphenolic antioxidants” (Craig, 20034, p.1).

The vegetarian diets are usually as well somehow lower in cholesterol and in saturated fat. The people who are vegetarians usually do have the levels of blood cholesterol that are lower. The food plants that have much soluble fiber are apples, dry beans, and oats among others are helpful in bringing down the amount of serum cholesterol in the body. Moreover, a large number of flavonoids found in some plant foods have wide-ranging organic properties which bring down the chances of one developing heart disease.

The flavonoids offer the protection to the LDL cholesterol against oxidation. Moreover, it helps in inhibiting blood clots formation, and “have hypolipidemic effects and anti-inflammatory action”(Manach, et al, 520, p.520). Studies conducted in Europe indicated that the people who had the highest flavonoids consumption “had 60 percent less mortality from heart disease and 70 percent lower risk of stroke than the low flavonoids consumers” (Keli, et al, 1996, p.641)

Being a vegetarian enables one to be protected against cancer. A report that was presented by the “World Cancer Research Fund” in the year 1997 presented a recommendation that people should lower the risk of being attacked by the cancer disease by selecting mainly the “plant-based diets” which are rich in various fruits as well as vegetables and also rich in the legumes and “minimally processed starchy staple foods, and to limit the intake of grilled, cured and smoked meats and fish” (Craig, 20034, p.1).

More than two hundred studies that have been conducted have given a revelation that frequently eating fruits as well as vegetables offers remarkable protection against the cancer disease at a large number of sites. Those individuals who eat a lot of fruits as well as vegetables “have about one-half the risk of cancer, especially the epithelial cancers”(Craig, 2003, p.1). It is also pointed out that it was also found out that “the most cancers were 20 – 50 % lower in those with high versus low consumption of whole grains” (Craig, 2003, p.1).

Several plant foods have been found to have the properties that are cancer protective (Craig, 2003). These foods include the umbulliferous herbs and vegetables, the cruciferous vegetables and other vegetables and fruits. Other such foods include the several nuts, beans and several seasoning herbs.

Such foods have the cancer-protective phytochemicals like “carotenoids, flavonoids, isothiocynates, allegic acid, glucaates and phenolic acids among others” (Craig, 2003, p.1). The compounds that are beneficial change the pathways as well as the actions of the hormones which are associated with cancer development, facilitate stimulation of the immune system and they also possess antioxidant activity (Craig, 1999).

Being a vegetarian enables one to have more energy. Having good nutrition facilitates generation of more utilizable energy “to keep pace with the kids, tackle that home improvement project or have better sex” (“Why go veg?”, 2012, p.1).Having a large amount of fat in blood implies arteries will not open in an appropriate way and also that the muscles will not obtain adequate oxygen.

The consequence of this is that one will feel zapped. The balanced vegetarian diets are “free of cholesterol-laden, artery-clogging animal products that physically slows us down and keep us hitting the snooze button morning after morning” (“Why go veg?”, 2012, p.1). Therefore, since the plant foods have large amounts of complex carbohydrates, they help in giving the body much energy.

Vegetarians are at a lower risk of becoming diabetic. It is pointed out that consuming more nuts and whole grains is associated with having “lower rates of diabetes” (Craig, 2003, p.1). In one of the large studies, it was established that consumption of fruits and vegetables was associated with the occurrence of diabetes in an inverse way, especially among women (Ford & Mokdad, 2001, p.34).

Men as well as women who reported of rarely or never consuming green leafy vegetables or fruits had “higher mean HbA 1C levels than those who had more frequent consumption” (Sargeant, L.A, et al, 2001, p.344). High levels of vegetable and fruit consumption tends to make a great contribution towards facilitating the prevention of the diabetes disease.

Being a vegetarian is good for health since it leads to the prevention of obesity and overweight, developing strong bones, prevention of heart disease, having cancer protection, having diabetes prevention and also enables one to have more energy in the body.

Considering the case of obesity and overweight, it has been found out that the people with these conditions who become vegetarians are able to lose a substantial amount of weight within the first year and over time, they are able to attain healthy weight. Moreover, vegetarians develop strong bones because of the availability of adequate calcium in their bodies which are obtained from food plants such as dark green vegetables, dry beans, and turnip greens among others.

There can also be prevention of cancer through the vegetarian diet. Several plant foods have been found to have the properties that are cancer protective which include such foods as the umbulliferous herbs and vegetables, the cruciferous vegetables and other vegetables and fruits and other foods include nuts, beans and a variety of seasoning herbs. In addition, heart disease can be prevented by one making a decision to become a vegetarian.

Eating vegetables and fruits on a regular basis brings down the level of the risk of “ischemic heart disease”. Everyday consumption of fresh fruits leads to a decrease in the mortality that result from heart disease and also a reduction in mortality resulting from the “cerebrovascular disease”. Furthermore, diabetes can also be prevented by one becoming a vegetarian.

Eating fruits and vegetables was associated with the occurrence of diabetes in an inverse way, especially among women. High levels of vegetable and fruit consumption tends to make a great contribution towards facilitating the prevention of the diabetes disease. Last but not least, the vegetarian diet enables one to have more energy in the body. The foods coming from plants are rich in complex carbohydrates and they supply much energy in the body.

Craig, W.J.(1999). Nutrition and Wellness. A Vegetarian Way to Better Health . Berrien Springs, MI: Golden Harvest Books.

Craig, W. (2003). Health benefits of vegetarian diets . Web.

Ford, E.S, & Mokdad, A.H. (2001). Fruit and vegetable consumption and diabetes mellitus incidence among U.S. adults . Prev Med , 32(1),33-9.

Kafatos, A., et al. (1997). Heart disease risk-factor status and dietary changes in the cretan population over the past 30 y: the seven countries study. Am J Clin Nutr, 65(1),1882-6.

Keli, S.O, et al.(1996). Dietary flavonoids, antioxidant vitamins, and incidence of stroke: the zutphen study. Arch Intern Med ,156(1), 637-42.

Key T.J, et al. (1996). Dietary habits and mortality in 11,000 vegetarians and health conscious people: results of 17-year follow up. BMJ, 313(1),775-79.

Manach C, et al.(1996). Bioavailability, metabolism and physiological impact of 4-oxo-flavonoids. Nutr Res , 16(1), 517-44.

Sargeant, L.A, et al.(2001). Fruit and vegetable intake and population glycosylated haemoglobin levels: the EPIC-Norfolk Study. Eur J Clin Nutr , 55(1),342-8.

Thorogood, M, et al. (1987). Plasma lipids and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in people with different diets in Britain. Br Med J , 295(1), 351-3.

Why go veg? . (2012). Web.

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Bibliography

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• The Dangers of Energy Drinks
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• Food Ethics
• Correlation Between Poverty and Obesity

IELTS Blog & IELTS Mock Test

Ielts exam preparation for a higher band score., ielts essay: everyone should adopt a vegetarian diet.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Everyone should adopt a vegetarian diet because eating meat can cause serious health problems.

Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer 1:

People should consume more vegetables and fruits and as little meat as possible because intake high amount of meat can cause serious health issues. In my opinion, the consumption of a vegetarian diet is a better way to live a healthy life and I agree with the notion.

Firstly, vegetarian diets are cheaper and more healthy. If the majority of people become vegetarians, a nation needs to struggle less to become self-sufficient on food production. Moreover, such diets are easily accessible both for the poor and rich citizens. Most importantly, plant-based food provides necessary vitamins and food values, especially fibre, which protect us from many dangerous diseases. Not to mention, producing vegetarian food is more ecologically sustainable, and it reduces damage to the environment.

On the contrary, a certain portion of meat is necessary for a balanced diet because it contains protein, calcium and other vitamins. Nevertheless, these can be also gained from alternative sources like beans, mushrooms and nuts. Most meats are cholesterol-rich, which is detrimental to the human body and cause diseases. On top of that, deadly illnesses like cardiovascular diseases, obesity and brain haemorrhage are increasing gradually all around the world due to a high intake of red meat in different countries and I believe a vegetarian diet is a perfect solution to all these problems.

In conclusion, a healthy diet determines our wellbeing and life expectancy. Since a vegetarian diet is far beneficial than meats, we should choose wisely and decrease our meat intake as little as possible.

[By – Amraiz Ali Shahzad ]

Model Answer 2:

When it is perfectly possible to lead a healthy life by eating plant-based food, I see no justification for killing birds or animals for our food. Therefore, I completely agree with the argument that everyone should adopt a vegetarian diet.

There are several benefits to following a vegetarian diet. To start with, plant-based food is rich in vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and other nutrients required for good health. What’s more, most fruits and vegetables contain little or no cholesterol or calories. Research has shown that vegetarians are less likely to develop health-related problems like obesity, cancer or heart diseases. Health benefits are not the only reason to follow a vegetarian diet. When we obtain our food from plants, we can also stop cruelty to animals.

By contrast, non-vegetarian foods such as fish and meat are high in cholesterol, fat and calories. Regular consumption of red meat is known to increase a person’s risk of cancer and heart disease. In addition, unlike fruits or vegetables, fish and meat cannot be eaten raw. The slaughtered animal may have some illness. If half-cooked meat is eaten, it can cause deadly infections in human beings. In fact, many cases of food poisoning are caused by the consumption of contaminated meat.

The quality of non-vegetarian food has also deteriorated over the years. Seafood has become contaminated due to the pollution in ocean water. It is a well-known fact that farm animals are given steroids to grow rapidly. When we eat their meat, the steroid also enters into our body. This leads to several problems like precocious puberty in children.

To conclude, vegetarian diets are healthy and do not constitute cruelty to animals. Therefore, I believe that everyone should adopt vegetarianism.

[Written by – Manoj ]

3 thoughts on “ IELTS Essay: Everyone should adopt a vegetarian diet ”

Excellent examples to prove to be vegetarian in IELTS essay. I need help in IELTS reading & listening in table chart completion.

Thanks for essay. My question is what is the best way to end an IELTS essay?

Wow! Read magazine to read more and learn for IELTS.

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