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Being Vegetarian Essay

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By a simple definition, a vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat. However, being a vegetarian takes on many different meanings today. There are several classifications and variations to being a vegetarian, and the strictness of the diet varies upon the individual. Purists are known as vegans, who reject any food that is derived from an animal, including dairy products like eggs, cheese, and milk. Some are pesco-vegetarians, meaning they consume fish, but still abstain from red meat and poultry. Others choose to be vegetarian, excluding any animal products, but including the consumption of eggs and/or dairy. Being a vegetarian has increased in popularly in recent years. “According to recent surveys, 7% of adult Americans (12.4 million) consider themselves vegetarian today compared to only 4% in the 1960s” (Rubin). The motives behind deciding to take on a vegetarian diet is based off several accounts. Factors revolving religious practices, animal rights, culture, and modern dieting are common considerations. Plant-based diet are recognized for reducing the risk of developing chronic illnesses including type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, blood pressure and obesity. Vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and more vitamins and fiber which is associated with reducing the risk for many chronic diseases. “Most importantly, humans do not need animal products to survive. In fact, we can easily do better without them” (Hever 18). While the majority of people take on a vegetarian life style for various reasons, more people find that the health benefits become the essential reason. Reducing the consumption of red meats can prevent the chances of developing cancer. The nutrients found in animal products can be better found in plants. Besides, poultry and red cow meats are found to promote several forms of cancer; the most common ones being breast, prostate, and colon. According to the World Cancer Research Fund/ American Institute for Cancer Research, “red meat consumption is the only ‘convincing’ dietary association with colon cancer” (“Becoming a Vegetarian”). Compound chemicals are formed from high-heat cooking of meat like smoking, grilling, or broiling, which are found

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