Assess good and bad points of vegetarianism?

Question

talk about the good things about vegetarianism and the bad things. they arelike advantages and disadvantages.

Answer 1

I have been seeing a naturapth, and have recently tested for mineral, vitamins deficiencies as well as a body check-up heart-rate and all... there seems to be no prob. with my health infact my heart-rate is similar to those that run marathons.. I was a vegan for 5 years but now transform to a veggie.... but would occasionally eat white meat and seafood (only at parties and at dinner party's where I am the guest).

I am also pro-organic; but I also believe in a balance - there should be a balance of herbivore and carnivores otherwise our animal kingdom will be out of wack...

As per b12 - I take a 1 multi-b in the morning.

Positive of not eating meat:

no animal by-product

no steroids

in chinese yin-yang eating... red meat if eaten frequently is known to cause rise in temper, bad-breath, acne, anger issues... so staying away from it may help with ppl's temper

Answer 2

There are so many advantages and disadvantages that I don't think I have enough space here to answer. First you have to realize that it's a personal choice and needs to be driven by more motivation than just thinking that it is a superior way of life. Speaking from experience, it's a decision that will effect you in more ways than you can understand, so it shouldn't be taken lightly.

Advantages:

-  Increase in social awareness  -   You have to become aware of the way that animals are treated to fully appreciate the effects of your decision.

-  Decrease in chances of many serious health problems  - Heart disease, cholesterol, and blood pressure are just a few of the health problems that can be reduced by not eating meat.

-  Weight Loss  -  Many people find that if they eliminate meat and increase intake of other forms of protein and vegetables, they will lose weight almost immediately.

-  Contaminated Meat  -  This is one of the less significant advantages, but if you're not eating meat, you don't have to worry about the way it is handled or cooked and can avoid the worry of disease.

-  Lack of Participation in Bad Business  -  Many of the corporations that produce meat have horrible business practices, and by not eating meat you're doing your part to not contribute.

-  Saving Animals!  -   I've heard that by not eating meat, you save 98 animals from being killed each year.  Knowing this is definitely enough for me, but for some people it's not enough.

Disadvantages:

-  Inconvenience -  It is also very hard to find good vegetarian or vegan food when eating out unless you're in a relatively large city. You have to make sure that there isn't beef or chicken stock in soup, and there are tons of other hidden meat products in seemingly harmless products.

-  Supplements  -  Even the healthiest veg knows that it's sometimes important to take a vitamin. My problem is Iron, which I get easily from a daily vitamin.

-  Acceptance  -   Many people don't understand vegetarianism, and therefor are hesitant to accept it. I know that in the five years I've been veg, I've gotten a question about once a week about how I get through it. Despite being able to support my argument, many people are still resistant because meat is such a large part of our culture.

- Will Power -  Some people find it difficult to avoid meat if they really love the taste of it. It was never a problem for me, and if your motivation is strong enough, it's not hard at all.

I understand that this may be a slightly biased opinion, but what can I say? I've been a veg for 5 years and have loved every minute of it. I don't have any health problems (my doctor agrees) and I feel great doing what I do. It's a personal choice that must be considered seriously. Every person has different pros and cons, but there are a lot of great books that can give you an unbiased opinion.

Answer 3

certain nutrients are very difficult to get from vegetarian foods, like B12 for example... and a lack of it can actually cause brain damage.

that said, if you're VERY well informed and educated when it comes to nutritional requirements and can manage to get all the vitamins you need, it's actually a very healthy way to live.