ICAATS

Many vegetarians believe they are living healthier lives due to a diet absent of meat.

Vegetarians reduce calories in their diet by not eating meat. This helps them keep their weight down and decreases chances of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis or colon cancer. Their diet may also aid in preventing heart disease.

Some believe that vegetarians may have lower blood pressure than carnivores, even if they eat the same amount of salt and exercise less. Studies appear to indicate that vegetarians experience less instances of colon cancer due to differences in the bacteria found in the colon.

A vegetarian diet has many factors that are beneficial to a healthy lifestyle. Fiber is a key component to a vegetarian diet. Vegetarians have been known to consume 2 to 3 times as much fiber as carnivores. A high fiber diet has been proven to reduce cholesterol and blood glucose levels, as well as, protect against certain cancers.

Vegetarians are also believed to have a greater intake of antioxidants. Antioxidants are found in many edible plants and protect cells from damage and lessen the risk of heart disease, cancer, arthritis and other illnesses.

It is also thought that vegetarians eat more isoflavones than carnivores. Isoflavones are found in soy foods and are a form of phytochemical. Isoflavones are believed to reduce the risk for prostate cancer and may increase bone density.

Vegetarians often eat considerably less saturated fat and cholesterol than carnivores. This results in dramatically lower levels of blood cholesterol, decreased chances of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Their diet also protects them from heme iron, which is found in meat and has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and cancer.

A vegetarian diet is desirable for some because it is thought to be a more natural lifestyle. It is gentle on your body, animals and the environment. It has also believed to improve mental and emotional wellness.