Vegetarianism is the practice of abstaining from meat, and sometimes other animal products, for various reasons. It encompasses a range of dietary patterns, with the most common distinction being between lacto-ovo vegetarians, who consume both eggs and dairy, and vegans, who exclude all animal products from their diet. Other variations include ovo-vegetarians (eggs only) and lacto-vegetarians (dairy only).
People choose vegetarianism for a variety of reasons, including ethical concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability considerations, potential health benefits, and cultural or religious beliefs. A well-planned vegetarian diet can be healthy and provide all the necessary nutrients, but it’s important to be mindful of certain nutrients that may require extra attention, such as protein, iron, vitamin B12, and calcium.