Vegetarian diets have existed since at least 700 BC, but in recent years, a new kind of diet has been on the rise. Veganism has existed for almost as long, but started to gain momentum in the 19th century before becoming more mainstream in the mid to late 2010s. But what is the difference between the two?
Similarities and Types of Vegetarian Diets
There are some similarities between the two diets - namely that neither eats meat. This includes fish, chicken, and red meat. There are several types of vegetarian diets, according to Healthline. These are:
- Lacto-ovo vegetarians: vegetarians who avoid all animal flesh, but do consume dairy and egg products
- Lacto vegetarians: vegetarians who avoid animal flesh and eggs, but do consume dairy products
- Ovo vegetarians: vegetarians who avoid all animal products except eggs
Some people who are mostly vegetarian but eat fish are known as pescitarian, whereas people who are part-time vegetarians are known as flexitarians.
The Key Difference: Vegans Exclude All Animal Products
The main difference between vegetarians and vegans is that vegans not only do not eat meat, but they also do not eat any animal products. This means no eggs, dairy products, gelatin or whey. Some vegans also do not consume honey or use any animal products in clothing, such as wool, leather, or silk.
Philosophical Differences
According to Healthline, vegetarians are by and large opposed to killing animals for food, but generally consider it acceptable to consume animal by-products such as milk and eggs, as long as the animals are kept in adequate conditions. However, vegans are against the consumption of any animal product regardless of how the animals were kept.
Nutritional Considerations
Both vegetarian and vegan diets are safe at all stages of life if properly planned. They are both low in saturated fats and cholesterol and high in vitamins, minerals and fibre. Both contain more nutrient-dense foods, such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains. However, both diets can lead to low intake of some nutrients, including iron, calcium, zinc and Vitamin B2 - if the diet is not properly balanced.
There are some observational studies that show vegans have a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers - but these studies are limited.
