Ovo-lacto-vegetarian

Ovo-lacto-vegetarianism is a vegetarian diet that includes the consumption of eggs, dairy products, and plant-based foods, but excludes all types of meat, fish, and poultry. This diet is considered a compromise between veganism and lacto-vegetarianism, allowing for a wider variety of food choices while still avoiding the consumption of animal flesh.

Overview

Ovo-lacto-vegetarianism combines the Latin words for eggs (ovo) and milk (lacto), reflecting the inclusion of these products into the diet. This diet is popular among vegetarians who wish to maintain a high protein intake without consuming meat. Eggs and dairy products provide essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin B12, and protein, which might be more challenging to obtain from a strictly plant-based diet.

Nutritional Considerations

While ovo-lacto-vegetarian diets can provide most essential nutrients, adherents should plan their diets carefully to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Important nutrients to focus on include iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. Fortified foods and supplements can help in meeting these nutritional needs.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

Many people choose ovo-lacto-vegetarianism for ethical reasons, aiming to reduce animal suffering and the environmental impact of their diet. This diet eliminates the need for meat, which has a significant environmental footprint due to factors like greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and land degradation. However, the dairy and egg industries also have environmental and ethical concerns, such as the treatment of dairy cows and laying hens, which some vegetarians consider when making dietary choices.

Cultural and Religious Influences

Various religions and cultures around the world practice forms of vegetarianism that resemble ovo-lacto-vegetarianism. For example, certain Hindu and Buddhist traditions advocate for a diet that excludes meat but may include dairy and eggs. Cultural preferences and religious teachings often influence the adoption of this diet.

See Also

• Veganism
• Lacto-vegetarianism
• Vegetarian cuisine
• Vegetarian nutrition