It’s likely you have heard the term “vegetarian” before and, even if you are not sure of what it means, the name itself gives you a clue that it has something to do with vegetables.
But what about the term “vegan”? Is this the same as being a vegetarian and if not, when is someone a vegan and when is he or she a vegetarian? The health pages from the BBC give us a general explanation:
A vegetarian diet is one that includes only cereal products, nuts, seeds, and fruit and vegetables, and may or may not include the use of dairy products and eggs. Vegetarians do not eat meat, poultry, fish, shellfish or foods containing meat products.
Vegans will not eat dairy products, eggs or any other food derived from animals.
For both vegetarians and vegans, avoiding certain products can be tricky. For example, animal fat and ingredients such as gelatine may be used in manufactured foods. Rennet, which is extracted from the stomach lining of cows, is often used in cheese making.
In many cases, there are vegetarian alternatives to these ingredients so, if you are considering a vegetarian or vegan diet, it’s well worth taking some time to read food labels.
Vegetarians should follow the same healthy eating guidelines as meat eaters.
They should choose foods from all the main food groups, including alternative sources of protein such as low-fat dairy products and eggs .
Vegetarian diets can meet the nutrient requirements of different groups of the population such as children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and older people, provided they’re well planned.
If you’re already a vegetarian or vegan or are planning to stop eating meat and meat products, talk to your health care professional about the nutrients required for good health.
