What does it mean to be vegetarian? There are several different types of diets that can be considered vegetarian, depending on their inclusion or exclusion of certain food items. Any of the various vegetarian eating patterns have the potential to offer great nutrition, if an individual prioritizes a well-planned and balanced diet. While most vegetarians have a high intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals due to their reliance on fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, others may need to prioritize dietary intake of high quality protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin B12 to ensure their continued health and well-being.
Understanding the different types of vegetarian diets is important as it may help you select the one that is right for you. Here are the different definitions of the types of vegetarian diets:
Types of Vegetarians
A person who eats a mostly vegetarian diet, but occasionally eats meat.
Lacto-ovo Vegetarian/Ovo-lacto Vegetarian
A lacto-ovo vegetarian is a vegetarian whose diet includes dairy products and eggs, but no meat.
A lacto vegetarian is a vegetarian whose diet includes dairy products, but no meat or eggs.
An ovo-vegetarian is a vegetarian whose diet includes eggs, but no meat or dairy products.
Pesco vegetarian/Pescatarian (move to the vegetarian section)
A pesco vegetarian is a vegetarian whose diet includes fish and other seafood, but no other meat.
A vegan is a person who does not eat any food that comes from animals, fish, or insects (such as meat, dairy, eggs, honey, etc.) and who often also does not use animal products (such as leather).
A vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat or seafood, but who may eat vegetables eggs and dairy products.
Check out these meal ideas for vegetarians:
We work with registered dietitians and nutrition scientists to provide nutrition education and healthy eating tips to help create future healthier generations through good nutrition. Melissa's Healthy Living does not provide medical advice, medical nutrition therapy, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.
© 2020. MelissasHealthyLiving.com and Melissa Halas MA, RD, CDE. All Rights Reserved.
Website by Urge Interactive Los Angeles