Whether you are a vegetarian by choice or because of your love of animals, there are several benefits to being a vegetarian. Even if you are a carnivore planning to go the vegetarian way, one of the first benefits of being a vegetarian is that you are more likely to stay healthy throughout your life compared to a carnivore. There are several reasons for this. A vegetarian diet is a good mix of all the major food groups, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, while a non-vegetarian diet contains more protein and fat.
One of the biggest benefits of being a vegetarian is that it reduces the risk of heart disease. It has been observed that people who eat less or no meat have a lower risk of developing a heart-related disorder. The fat and cholesterol present in meat are easily deposited in the arteries, especially the main artery that supplies blood to the heart. The chances of this happening are obviously lower if you are a vegetarian.
A vegetarian diet that includes vegetables and fruits lowers the risk of developing ischemic heart disease. Research has also shown that including vegetables and fruits reduces the risk of heart disease by 24% compared to people who eat meat on a regular basis. Fruits and vegetables are also rich in magnesium, potassium, fiber and antioxidants, which protect the body against cardiovascular disorders. Foods rich in oatmeal, dried beans, apples, and carrots help lower cholesterol. Therefore, prevention of heart disease is one of the best benefits of being a vegetarian.