Vegetarians are usually stereotyped as people who do not eat red meat, fish or poultry. There are, however, several different kinds of vegetarians. A vegan, or total vegetarian, has a similar eating pattern except it excludes eggs and dairy products.
Health concerns can arise for vegetarians because of limited food choices.
Planning healthy meals becomes important for receiving enough protein, iron, calcium and vitamin B-12. To supplement protein and energy in a vegetarian's diet, foods such as tofu, low-fat dairy products, nuts, peas, bread, potatoes and corn are suggested. Vegetarians can meet all nutritional needs if they carefully plan their meals. Foods with vitamin C, such as tomatoes, citrus fruits or juices, and broccoli, can provide calcium. To meet vitamin B-12 needs, select dairy products, eggs, and some brands of nutritional yeast and soy milk.