Why I Do Not Mind Being a Vegetarian:

Taura of MolTaur's Thoughts-

I haven't always been a vegetarian, but I have been for almost 3 years! Though I do understand the importance of eating meating and its nutritional value, I believe there are more than enough alternatives to get the protien you need to maintain a good health. Regardless of animals rights, which usually play the main role in peoples decisions to become vegetarians, I also thought it could positively affect my health. Instead of eating chemically juiced up slabs of meat and allowing that meat to re-cook in my warm body, soy products, beans, vegetables, fruits, and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins, became my diet.

Here are some beneficial facts to being a vegetarian:

1. Vegetables and fruits are rich in nutrients that help to reduce heart attacks and improve the texture of skin. Some of these nutrients include vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that are considered to be vital for good skin health.

2. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and other phenolic compounds are useful in reducing the concentration of toxic compounds (which are found in meats).

3. Nuts like almonds and walnuts and soy proteins are consumed by vegetarians, which are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids are useful in balancing the levels of cholesterol in the body and reduce the risk of heart attacks. Soybeans, nuts and cereals are also rich in nutrients like iron, zinc and dietary protein.

4. Eleven out of thirteen recognized vitamins are made by plants. Also, vegetables and fruits contain compounds that have been found to contain anti-tumorigenic properties.

I personally have talk to my doctors regarding my vegetarianism and all have said that as long as I keep up with daily vitamins, eating high-protein meals and making smart, healthy food decisions, I would be fine. I must admit though that I do not agree with raising your children as vegetarians or staying vegetarian while pregnant. When children are young, their bodies are constantly growing and developing inside and out. In order for them to build strong immune systems, bones, and overall good health, they should be getting all the nutrients and protein as possible. With this said, I must stand up for the rights of us vegetarians and our health!