DADA J P VASWANI

We live in an age where eating non-vegetarian food is considered to be the ultimate gastronomic delight: trendy, exotic and energising. How can we live without meat? is the cry heard from many, even those born into vegetarian families. Despite being aware that meat-eating has been proved to be injurious to health, they continue to eat meat.

Research has proved that animal fats raise the cholesterol level of blood, while certain vegetables actually lower it. Further, the amounts of toxic wastes present in the flesh of a dead animal are very high. Thus, when we eat the flesh of animals, we are not only consuming the so-called nutritive portions but also poisonous waste products. It is not possible for the body to eliminate the poisons immediately and effectively. Vegetarianism is perhaps one of the most misunderstood concepts of our times. Grass eaters, salad eaters, cranks and herbivores are some of the terms used with derision and in jest to refer to vegetarians.

A vegetarian diet is simple and nutritious; it gives adequate energy and is easily digested. It is wholesome and non-toxic. It affords immense variety and is also pleasing to the eye and palate. Vegetarianism could extend your life by several years, as well as lower your risk of heart disease, cancer and dementia. It is better for the planet, reducing water usage and global warming gases. And, it certainly is good for the cow, pig, lamb or chicken that you would have otherwise devoured. Giving up meat is a humane and healthy choice.

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

View original post here:
Vegetarian and healthy - Economic Times