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Vegetarianism means not eating meat and, for some, other animal products.
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Two of the most common kinds of vegetarian diets are "lacto-ovo," which includes eggs and dairy but not meat, and "vegan," involving a more complete rejection of animal foods.
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People become vegetarians for many reasons, including to avoid the pesticides and contaminants in meat; to support animal rights; to reduce the chance of heart disease and cancer; and to eat cheaply. There are also strong environmental arguments in favor of vegetarianism, because raising animals uses more natural resources than cultivating vegetables and grains.
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There are an estimated 4.8 million vegetarian adults in the United States. Some studies show that it is even more prevalent among people under 18, especially girls.
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Many cultures around the world have vegetarian or near-vegetarian diets. Some religions, such as Buddhism, explicitly encourage vegetarianism, and almost all religions, including Christianity, Judaism and Islam, have vegetarian sects. There are references to vegetarianism throughout history.
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A vegetarian diet isn't necessarily more healthy. Someone who eats junk food yet avoids meat isn't getting good nutrition. Vegetarians are generally advised to seek out extra protein in such foods as beans and grains, and to make sure they get enough calcium, iron and B-complex vitamins. It may be helpful to take a supplement.
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