Paper Sample on Vegetarians and Vegans

Humans can access a variety of diets. Dietary consumption is a matter of an individual choice and preference. Thus, it is imperative to consider factors such cultural background and practices since they influence an individuals choice. Currently, among the most shared dietary practices includes that of vegetarian and vegans. By definition, a vegetarian diet excludes the taking of meat, fish or poultry. Comparatively, a vegan is a vegetarian who does not use animal products or their by-products. The reasons behind the choices and preference in diet could be drawn from the need to conserve the environment, ethical reasons, and religious practices that advise against the taking of particular kinds of foods. Therefore, this articles looks into the actions of being a vegan or vegetarian. It questions if it is necessary for all people to adopt these practices in regards to the benefits drawn from either of the two.

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Vegetarian and Vegan Action

Veganism describes a philosophy and compassionate lifestyle. It a community that advocates for the right and respect to life including that of the animals. It is their view that the commercialization of animals is an exploitation of their rights and inhumane actions by man. Their beliefs involve a strict observance and avoidance of any product from animals including leather, fur, and wool. In regards to the vegetarian, there are flexible and multiple choices allowing the taking of animal products. It is also found to comprise different groups including Lactovegetarian, Ovo-vegetarians, Lacto-ovo-vegetarian and Pescetarians.

Research on healthy living identify these practices as more beneficial compared to the taking of meat. Vegetarian and vegans are healthier than their meat counterparts. Additionally, studies indicate that the practice helps to provide cardiovascular benefits and lowers the risk to cancers. Veganism associates with an elimination of common allergies resulting from the consumption of dairy and animal protein. In matters about the environment, plant-based diets are friendlier and tend to reduce carbon emissions relating to global warming. A disadvantage of the vegan diet results from the need to take dietary supplements. These include those of B12, amino acids, iron, and vitamin D. Therefore, considering all factors for or against a particular diet is a personal choice.

Interesting campaigns on healthy living and practices advocate for the shift in dietary practices to include plant products rather than animal products. Among the notable organization is the Vegan Action, administering their logo to certified products. The organization provides people with an opportunity to learn the importance of consuming fewer animal products as a means to eliminate animal suffering, protect the environment, and improve human health. Similarly, the Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) provides educative information through its website, journals, and blog. It also offers nutritious recipes encouraging the growth of the vegetarian community. Additionally, The New York Times provides articles, commentary, and information regarding such diets. It publishes articles from blogs such as Motherlode that address on parenting issues, especially in choosing foods for the children. The blog notes that it is especially difficult when the children become older and express preference of diets contrary to their parents choices. More so, parents face the temptation of going against their belief and practice regarding diets.

Conclusion

It is appropriate to consider ones diet, especially in determining the health benefits and impacts on the environment. Health-related issues are currently an outcome of environmental degradation that takes different forms. A diet intake is simply a matter of choice. However, it is necessary to ensure it is well-balanced and of high quality. It is, therefore, important to use the available resources in guiding the decision to a particular diet.