Vegetarianism and veganism are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While both diets involve a focus on plant-based foods, there are key differences between the two. In this article from Functional Medicine Los Angeles, an expert team of functional medicine Burbank doctors, we’ll explore the differences between vegetarianism and veganism, and discuss the benefits of each.
What is Vegetarianism?
Vegetarianism is a diet that eliminates meat, poultry, and fish from the diet. However, there are different types of vegetarians, and some may still consume certain animal products. For example, lacto-ovo vegetarians consume dairy products and eggs, while lacto-vegetarians consume dairy products but not eggs. Some vegetarians may also consume fish, known as Pescatarians.
Vegetarianism has been associated with numerous health benefits. Studies from functional medicine doctors have shown that vegetarians tend to have a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Additionally, a vegetarian diet can be rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can support overall health and well-being.
What is Veganism?
Veganism, on the other hand, is a diet that eliminates all animal products from the diet, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, and even honey. It also extends to non-food products, such as clothing and cosmetics, which may contain animal-derived ingredients. Veganism is often motivated by ethical, environmental, or health concerns.
Like vegetarianism, veganism has been associated with a range of health benefits. A vegan diet can be high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can support overall health and well-being. It has also been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
The Key Differences Between Vegetarianism and Veganism
The key difference between vegetarianism and veganism is the exclusion of animal products from the diet. Vegetarians may consume dairy, eggs, and in some cases, fish. Vegans, on the other hand, eliminate all animal products from their diet, including dairy and eggs. Additionally, veganism extends beyond food choices to include a broader lifestyle that seeks to avoid the use of animal products in all aspects of life.
Another key difference is the motivations behind the diets. Vegetarianism may be motivated by health concerns, ethical considerations related to animal welfare, or environmental concerns related to the impact of meat production on the environment. Veganism, on the other hand, is often motivated by ethical and environmental concerns, as well as the belief that it is wrong to exploit or harm animals.
The Benefits of Vegetarianism
As our functional medicine Los Angeles experts have mentioned, vegetarianism has been associated with a range of health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Vegetarians tend to have a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. This is in part because a vegetarian diet can be high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can support overall health and well-being.
- Improved Digestion: Vegetarian diets tend to be higher in fiber, which can support healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
- Weight Management: Vegetarian diets are often lower in calories and saturated fat, which can support healthy weight management.
- Environmental Benefits: Plant-based diets have been associated with lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced land use, and reduced water use compared to diets that include animal products.
Vegetarianism and veganism are two plant-based diets that have many benefits for health and the environment. While there are differences between the two, both diets can be healthy and nutritionally balanced when properly planned. Whether you choose to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, or simply incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, there are many benefits to be gained from reducing your consumption of animal products. Are you looking to start your vegetarian or vegan diet? Consult with our functional medicine Studio City practitioners today.