by Lisa Federico

Created on: March 26, 2010

Truth or Fiction:  Vegetarian Diets Are Unhealthy

I believe it's best to begin this article with some facts before I present my argument for this debate.

I am female, 5’2” tall, and have weighed 100 pounds for all of my adult life.  I exercise daily, but moderately only, and have 17% body fat.  My total cholesterol is 180, with 84 good cholesterol – more than double the required amount.  My blood pressure sits regularly at 115 over 65.  I have not had the flu or a head cold in atleast ten years.  My hair is healthy and shiny; I have good fingernails, flawless clear skin, excellent teeth and gums, and am deemed “very healthy” by my doctor (who I saw for my annual check-up just two weeks ago).  I also see my dentist twice yearly, an eye doctor, a dermatologist, and a nutritionist.  All have given me excellent marks for taking good care of myself, for getting a good amount of exercise, proper sleep, and eating right.

Welcome to my world.  I am a vegetarian.

Truth or Fiction:  Vegetarian Diets Are Unhealthy.  The answer is …. Fiction … and anyone who is an educated vegetarian will readily agree with me.  We eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds rich in vitamins and minerals, and packed with disease fighting antioxidants.  We know what to eat in order to get the right amount of protein and iron  – often thought to be two of the downfalls of a vegetarian diet.  We generally avoid fast foods, processed foods, salty snacks, and sugary desserts.  A treat now and then is not a sin, but we are careful to remember … it's a treat, and treats are for once in awhile.

Nope, not being “Miss Perfect” and not being a snob, not trying to prove anything, and definitely not trying to force my diet on anyone else.  I don’t have to.  I know how I feel eating the way I do.  I know I feel great, look good, am strong and alert, and have loads of energy. 

Look, if you have it in the back of your head that vegetarians live on carrot sticks and iceberg lettuce, have a frail build and a gaunt complexion – why, you are sadly mistaken.

I eat from the earth to nourish and sustain my body, and my mind.  My meals are nutritious, delicious, and filling.  I have a clean bill of health from my doctors, and impressive lab results – specifically due to a vegetarian diet.

Truth or Fiction:  Vegetarian Diets Are Unhealthy.  Fiction.  I rest my case.

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