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There are different types of vegetarian lifestyles because vegetarianism is infused with personal eating philosophies and varying personal nutritional needs and preferences. Vegetarians in the world who can be sorted into groups depending on the foods they eat or don't eat.

Here are some of the belief systems that are at the root of vegetarian practice:
a) compassion for the treatment of animals.

b) health-consciousness due to chronic illnesses associated with meat consumption.
c) earth-friendly perspective in wanting to conserve the nature resources that go into food production of animal products.
d) personal philosophies and/or religious beliefs tied to concerns about the cleanliness of production and food processing.

Here is a description of each of the different types of vegetarian lifestyles:

1)Lacto vegetarians -
This group of vegetarians stay clear of all animal foods except for dairy products.

2) Lacto-ovo vegetarians -
This vegetarian group refrains from eating all meat except for dairy and eggs.

3) Vegans -
These vegetarians follow a stricter interpretation of vegetarianism by eating no meats, dairy products, or eggs. The vegan diet is based on eating lentils, beans, soy products etc.

4) Modified vegans-
They follow the dietary habits of other vegetarians, but they will included fish in their diet as a source of protein.

5) Semi-vegetarians-
This group consciously limits their intake of animal products, emphasizing vegetables and grains.

Vegetarianism is an important component of other dietary practices such as Macrobiotics:
6)Macrobiotics as a holistic way of life -
The macrobiotic diet is made up of whole grains and vegetables and emphasizes, natural, unprocessed foods, complex carbohydrates, and low unsaturated fats. Practices emphasizing holistic health, on the other hand believe that they are treating the whole person.

This way of eating is low-fat and high in fiber, thereby reducing high cholesterol, preventing heart disease, reducing cancer risks, assisting with weight management and strengthening the immune system. The macrobiotic diet is primarily a meatless lifestyle.

Macrobiotics promotes organic, natural methods from the garden or farm to the table.
The macrobiotic diet is followed by many people who believe in it as a natural, holistic way of life. In addition to these people in good health, still others follow macrobiotic diets because they are working at preventing or treating cancer and other degenerative diseases. Diets low in fat and high in fiber are believed to be effective in preventing and treating cancer and other chronic illnesses.

In the macrobiotic lifestyle, foods should be native to the climate, grown organically and eaten while they are fresh. Cooking methods are also in keeping with macrobiotic principles. For example, microwaves are usually not used.

The origin of Macrobiotic food selection, preparation, and consumption is based on ancient spiritual traditions. Its foundation is the concept that enjoying good health can lead to peace of mind and spiritual understanding.

One of the strongest elements of vegetarianism is the intentional choices vegetarians make in the purchase, preparation, and consumption of food in their lives. Whichever type of vegetarian lifestyle he or she pursues, that careful consideration of food can be applauded and can characterize their approach to living.

Learn more about this author, E.M.Robinson.
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