Vegetarians and vegans: differences

Although meat is a recommended food within a varied and balanced diet, the number of people who choose to be a free food of this type of food is increasing, either those that come directly from the meat itself same, or of those that are of animal origin (as for example is the case of milk, eggs and butter). In fact, we can pay attention to what are the different benefits of meat, to realize its different qualities and nutritional properties: it is very rich in proteins of high biological value -that is, of good quality-, it provides B vitamins and it is also rich in minerals such as iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium.

However, this nutritional decision to leave meat is in some way opposed to another real trend that we find in certain Western countries, in which the consumption of meat even exceeds what is nutritionally recommended. In this sense, and discovering a little more about how much meat to eat a day and a week, many nutritionists advise not to exceed 210 grams per week of red meats, and of the two servings of white meats per week.

Going back to the topic that concerns us, when a person chooses to eliminate meat products from their diet, and prefers only to consume foods of vegetable origin, we find ourselves mainly faced with a certain number of different types of feeds, which will be differentiated according to food. or food groups that are consumed and those that do not.

What is vegetarianism?

The vegetarianism it is a type of food consisting of the elimination of meat, and in certain occasions it is possible to opt for the consumption of foods of animal origin (as is the case of milk and eggs, and also of others of animal origin such as butter or gelatin), or its complete elimination.

That is, it is a diet or regime whose meal plan is primarily vegetable: plants, vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, seeds and nuts.

Within a vegetarian diet we can find in turn with other types of vegetarian feeds:

  • Strict vegetarian: diet consisting only and exclusively in plant-based foods.
  • Lactovegetarian: diet consisting of plant foods, in addition to some or all dairy products (milk, yogurt, butter ...).
  • Lactoovovegetarian: diet consisting of plant foods, in addition to dairy products and eggs.
  • Partial vegetarian (or semi-vegetarian): diet consisting of plant foods, which in turn may include fish or chicken -that is, red meat is eliminated-, eggs and dairy products.

What is veganism?

We could say that the veganism not only is it a diet or food option of exclusively vegetable origin, it is also a way of life, which is based on respect for animals, considering them as individuals with interests that deserve to be respected. In other words, it is a healthier and more respectful type of life, both with animals and with Nature.

In addition, this respect is not only unique in the diet that is followed, but also tends to avoid dressing or wear clothes of animal origin.

Images | Romel Sanchez / jeffreyw This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist. ThemesVegan

Vegan vs. Vegetarian (February 2024)