The Benefits of Being Vegetarian
Growing up, if someone had said the word “vegetarian” to me, I would have pictured a brontosaurus. When I was younger, plant-based diets were inseparable from the large, prehistoric herbivore. Now, after befriending a few vegetarians and broadening my education, it seems silly that a brontosaurus is still sometimes what I picture.
Vegetarianism, as I have come to understand it, is a plant-based lifestyle that many people around the world have adopted for a number of valid reasons. Many have turned to plant-based diets for either the health benefits or a desire to protect the Earth’s environment. Other reasons include religious beliefs or to protest animal cruelty.
A vegetarian, as simply defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is “a person who does not eat meat.” According to a poll from the Vegetarian Resource Group, in 2012, close to 4% of adult U.S. citizens identified as vegetarian or vegan. As of 2022, the number is closer to 6%, which equates to roughly 19.6 million people. About 3% have sworn away from all animal-related products, adopting veganism.
Personal health issues are a primary reason for choosing plant-based diets. According to Justin Healey in his book “Vegetarianism,” vegetarians are statistically less likely to develop health conditions such as heart disease, obesity or hypoglycemia. Vegetarianism can also reduce cholesterol levels and the likelihood of many cancers. Diets of fruits and vegetables support the immune system and a healthy body. While this is not conclusive evidence that vegetarianism is a “cure-all,” it does suggest that this lifestyle often leads to healthy living.
Others have chosen a plant-based diet because it is less harmful for the environment. Healey reports that avoiding meat means using fewer resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Concerns for climate change, water use and biodiversity are all factors that heavily affect nutritional behaviors.
The production of meat and dairy involves removing natural habitats, a major contributor to wildlife endangerment. In fact, SDG Knowledge Hub notes that cattle farming is responsible for 80% of the deforestation of the Amazon Rainforest. Decreasing the population’s consumption of meat, according to Healthline, can create a more sustainable future.
Animal cruelty is another deciding factor to become vegetarian. Factory farming has industrialized the methods of obtaining animal products, and according to Healey, many people are concerned about the treatment of living creatures as a result. While it may be a controversial topic, the well-being of livestock helps many to finalize their decision to stop eating meat.
Despite the numerous health and ecological benefits, many people who eat meat are concerned about nutrient deficiencies, inconvenience and flavor limitations that might come with the vegetarian diet. It can be difficult and inconvenient to cut out meat and find a protein-dense substitute. However, many find that after time and research, the vegetarian lifestyle could be their best choice.
Whether for personal health, concern for the environment or complaints against animal cruelty, becoming a vegetarian is a decision many have made and will continue to make. Vegetarianism has stood the test of time amid dietary fads that come and go, thereby proving itself as a fitting option for countless people. So before dismissing this lifestyle as I once did, give vegetarianism a chance to enhance your life.
Westling is an opinion writer for the Liberty Champion.