Benefits of Vegetarianism

Being a vegetarian is no longer frowned upon as the world takes note of the benefits of vegetarianism. Vegetarian diet is not only adequate to fulfill all the standard dietary requirements but also has additional health benefits including prevention of several diseases and harmful health conditions.

Effect on Body Mass Index

A strict vegetarian diet contains relatively less fat as compared to the non-vegetarian diet owing to the negligible fat content in most of the vegetables. However the only case where the fat content in a vegetarian diet would increase is the inclusion of excessive amounts of butter, fat or other fat-rich dairy products. Research says that average vegetarians eat 25% less fat than a typical meat-eater. This results in a Body Mass Index that is closest to the standard values or at least closer than those of the non-vegetarians. Eating fresh vegetables and fruits and other staple vegetarian foods like whole grains or pulses help over accumulation of fat and when supplemented with a regular fitness regime, can help to maintain a healthy body weight.

Benefits of Dietary Fiber

A vegetarian diet primarily constitutes fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and pulses. Vegetables and fruits contain high amounts of dietary fiber. Fiber binds to the cholesterol molecules and prevents its absorption in the blood circulation. It also eliminates these cholesterol molecules via stools. Thus a vegetarian diet results into lower cholesterol levels. Since cholesterol is considered as one of the reasons, which can lead to blockage of arteries, lower cholesterol levels indicate lower risks of arteriosclerosis as well as heart attacks. In addition to this dietary fibers also help to improve the process of digestion and thus help the body rid of toxic waste products.

Higher Life Expectancy

Wondering what good can broccoli and Brussels sprouts do to you? Well for one, they can make you live longer than your non-vegetarian counterparts. Yes, don't be surprised! One of the most important benefits is perhaps its effect on life expectancy. Several research and studies have found out that vegetarianism offers higher life expectancy than a non-vegetarian diet. On an average, vegetarians live longer than non-vegetarians.

Cancer Protection

Vegetarianism can also reduce your risks for cancer. In 1997 a survey report aided by the World Cancer Research Fund stated that we lower our risk of cancer by choosing plant-based diets including a variety of vegetables, fruits, legumes and avoid the intake of grilled, cured and smoked meats and fish. Grilling, curing and smoking meat produce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines, which are carcinogenic. It has been established that people who consume higher amounts of fruits and vegetables have about one-half the risk of cancer.

In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, many scientists have also stated that vegetarianism also contributes to reducing the effects of global warming. Also in case you are a non-believer in animal rights, then it is time you read and educate yourself about the inhuman practices involved in slaughterhouses.