Vegetarian and Vegan

"Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet". ~Albert Einstein.

People choose a Vegetarian lifestyle for different reasons.
FYP is not against eating meat, but acknowledges the benefits and the precautions of a vegetarian diet.

VEGETARIANISM is a concept of eating no meat but allowing the consumption of eggs and dairy.

An important concern of this way of eating is a deficiency in B-12. A deficiency of B-12 can result in nerve degeneration or even death.
However, most vegetarians assimilate B-12 more efficiently than meat eaters.
For Vegetarians eating dairy and eggs often in the week can ensure adequate B-12 consumption.

B-12 actually grows on bacteria in the plants or in the soil. This bacteria can also be in the form of pro-biotics. Vegertarians can take a pro-biotic supplement and get their B-12 from their own gut flora that is present.

VEGANS have the same concern with B-12 but more so. Vegans eat all plant food and do not eat an animal product of any kind. That means no meat, dairy or eggs. The probiotics mentioned above can provide some B-12 as well as fermented foods such as tempeh and kimchi. Brewer's Yeast can supply B-12 as well, but contains a high level of phosphorus.

PROTEIN is also an important issue. Again vegetarians are going to get plenty of protein from dairy and eggs and some vegetarians eat fish.

Vegetarians and Vegan's alike, have the entire plant kingdom at their disposal! The possibilities are endless. Gaining knowledge on how to combine foods will ensure proper protein for the body. The body requires the 9 essential amino acids to make complete protein. The body is able to synthesize the other 11 from the essentials. Especially for Vegans, combining the right foods will bring together all 9 essential amino acids and create the completen protein.

An exciting food in the plant kingdom is a seed called Quinoa.. It is considered a grain by some. It is a food that is a complete protein and contains plenty of fiber!

BEANS are a nutrient power food! Full of fiber, phyto-nutrients, minerals and protein this is a food any person should add to their diet!
Adding grains to beans makes them a complete protein and a satisfying dish. Combining nuts and seed with other foods can also provide complete protein and many nutrients.

DON'T SKIP THE VEGETABLES!

Adding dark green foods such as spinach or kale along with bright pigmented foods such as beets can ensure a surplus of nutrients, and can also help build the blood to ensure proper iron levels.

BENEFITS OF VEGETARIANISM AND VEGANISMMaintain ideal weight more easilyTypically have lower cholesterolMore efficient digestionLower rates of heart disease, cancer, etc.Generally have more energyCan create a sattvic state of mind