The Vegetarian Alternative

Book excerpt: Abstract: The fundamentals of a sensible vegetarian diet areexamined, reviewing nutrition, health, ethics, philosophy and kitchen techniques. Vegetarians can be divided into three groups: the lacto-vegetarian, who uses milk; the lacto-ovo-vegetarian, who uses milk and eggs; and the vegan or total vegetarian who eats no food of animal origin. The most important nutritional guideline for vegetarians is to eat a wide variety of foods. Scientists and researchers, looking at the possible dietary causes of many diseases of western industrialized countries, are discovering that vegetarian diets may be a link to preventive health. Additionally, vegetarian diets, if properly maintained, can easily provide adequate amounts of protein, vitamins, minerals and calories. Those switching to vegetarian diets can do so without purchasing costly new equipment, except perhaps a food processor. Sample recipes include soybean pate, deep fried tofu and falafel.