For example, a vegetarian would eat fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, and nuts or foods made from these sources. Most vegetarians in the United States fall into this category. There are many reasons why people choose a vegetarian life-style. Some include improving their health. Others become a vegetarian for environmental or ecological concerns, economic or world hunger issues, compassion for animals or belief in nonviolence, food preferences, or spiritual reasons.
Any diet has the potential to be beneficial or detrimental to health.
It depends upon factors such as variety and availability of food. However, it may be easier for some individuals to meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans with a vegetarian diet. Vegetarians have lower rates of heart disease, high blood pressure, some forms of cancer, adult-onset diabetes, and obesity. The health benefits of a vegetarian diet may also reflect a healthful life-style. The body will make its own complete protein if a variety of foods and enough calories are eaten during the day.