The Vegetarian Diet and Optimum Nutrition

This week, we're going to explore vegetarianism...what is a vegetarian, the different types and even if you're a meat and fish eater, there's some good stuff coming your way as well, so stay tuned this week!!

The Mayo Clinic offers a plethora of information and support for any individual who thinks he or she would like to embark on a vegetarian lifestyle.  There are many reasons why people are vegetarians (religious, social, ethical or health problems such as cardiovascular disease).  But whatever the reasons, make sure you are getting a proper and well-planned diet.  Nutritional needs are paramount to good health no matter what type of lifestyle eating you are engaged in.  If you're not sure about what your individual needs are, consult with your m.d., a nutritionist, or myself and together, we will plot a course to great and tasty nutritious meals!
Did you know that there are three types of vegetarian diets?

■Vegan diets exclude meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products and foods that contain these products.
■Lacto-vegetarian diets exclude meat, fish, poultry and eggs, as well as foods that contain them. Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and butter, are allowed in a lacto-vegetarian diet.
■Lacto-ovo vegetarian diets exclude meat, fish and poultry, but allow eggs and dairy products.

Some people follow a semivegetarian diet (also called a flexitarian diet) which is primarily a plant-based diet but includes meat, dairy, eggs, poultry and fish on occasion or in small quantities.

Here's Your Healthy Tip of the Day:  stay tuned tomorrow for the vegetarian food pyramid and learn more about healthy food choices (think out of the box here, folks), and Nancy....would you share your kale chip recipe with us???  I've never heard of them before, but they were one of the tastiest treats I've ever had!!!  And anyone else who would like to share some vegetarian recipes, please do!