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What is a Vegetarian Diet?I find that a lot of people are confused about the vegetarian diet. And, yes, we don’t make it easy! There are lacto-ova vegetarians, lacto-vegetarian and vegans.However, I have known people who describe themselves as "vegetarian" only to find that they do eat some white meat and fish. Then there are "vegetarians" who do not eat any kind of meat but will eat fish! Don't get me wrong. I fully support anyone who cuts down on the amount of meat or fish that they eat, substituting for more vegetarian options. It's a step in the right direction, and a healthier diet. However, if people do not understand the term vegetarian, it leads to problems for true vegetarians. I recently visited a restaurant which had on its "vegetarian selection" pasta with tuna! I also looked at a menu at a health spa which also had a fish course down under "vegetarian options"! These are not isolated experiences. How many times have you had to explain that, as a vegetarian, you do not eat fish? Here is my favourite definition from The Vegetarian Society (UK) which should clear up any confusion re the term "vegetarian": A vegetarian is someone living on a diet of grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits with or without the use of dairy products and eggs A vegetarian does not eat any meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish or crustacea, or slaughter by-products. To clarify further: Lacto-ovo vegetarians will eat eggs and dairy products. This is probably the most common type of vegetarian diet. In case you haven't guessed from the recipes on this website, this includes me! A lacto-vegetarian will eat diary products but does not eat eggs (ovo is derived from the Latin word ovum meaning egg) Vegans do not eat any animal products at all. They do not eat eggs or any dairy products or honey.
Hope that clears everything up! New Vegetarian? What more information on the vegetarian diet? Here is a great little ebook that is perfect for new vegetarians or anyone thinking of following a vegetarian diet. "Making the Case for a Vegetarian Lifestyle"is literally crammed with facts, pertinent information, guidelines and meal suggestions. To find out more Click Here Looking for more ideas?
Another good ebook is vegetarian secrets. This is crammed full of great vegan and vegetarian recipes and ideas.
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