Vegetarian Diets

Abstract

Health benefits of vegetarian diets have emerged. The focus has shifted from nutrient adequacy to health and environmental impact of vegetarianism. This indicates growing awareness that vegetarian diets, despite marginal intake of a few nutrients, can provide ample health benefits to humans. Vegetarians worldwide display increased longevity but low rates of overweight and obesity, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, type II diabetes, kidney stones, gallstones, and diverticular disease. Observed health advantages are likely due to the protective effect of plant nutrients as well as reduced intake of meat components.