Dietary Practice of Vegetarianism - Essay Example

People that follow such diets are referred to as vegetarians and are found mostly in Asian countries that are dominated by Buddhism and Hinduism religions that assert humans live on a plant-based diet. (Portmess, 2001) A number of variations have been observed in the abovementioned dietary practice, in terms of the exclusion or inclusion of poultry items.

            It is observed that a minority group of vegetarians, animal lovers, and religious experts has asserted the fact that an omnivorous diet is a symbolic way of showing cruelty to animals. Such a notion has been contradicted by a multitude of observable facts that will be discussed in this paper. It is observed that such a notion has been influenced by a number of ethical, emotional, and religious factors, rather than scientific or rational reasons. In this regard, such a statement cannot be scrutinized through rational understanding. Still, it is observed that some animals that produce meat are sacred in some religions, and societies following such religions consider meat-related products as an act against the word of God. (Fox, 1999)

Such a statement can be contradicted by the analysis of the human body that is created according to the requirements of a meat-based diet. The digestive system of the human body is very effective in terms of digesting a meat-based, as well as, a vegetable-based diet, and therefore, it would be ridiculous to say that eating a meat-based diet is against the word of God. Moreover, the natural ecosystem is one of the major examples that oppose the abovementioned statement. It is the rule of nature that stronger ones kill and eats weaker ones, and it is very essential for the continuity of the animal kingdom. In this regard, if vegetarianism will be made compulsory, survival will become one of the problems of human beings, as the animal population will multiply and be ten times greater than the human population. (Spencer, 2004)

            The statement of vegetarians is supported by some health factors, as science has accepted that a vegetable-based diet helps in avoiding a number of heart diseases, cancer, and chronic illnesses. Moreover, the high fiber content of vegetables and fruits further aid in digestion and protect against diseases. However, it is also very important and suggested by physicians that meat and poultry products should be a part of the diet, which gives protein and vitamins that cannot be acquired from vegetable-based diets. Moreover, according to reports and studies carried out by different health organizations, an omnivorous diet is considered the best diet for the human body, as it provides all the necessary and required food components to the body. (Fox, 1999) In addition, different dental organizations have indicated that there are chances of softening of human teeth in the case of a vegetarian diet, and therefore, meat-based products should be included in the human diet. Vegetarians often counter the protein argument by advocating the use of soya products as a source of protein, instead of animal-based foods. In this context, it should be noted that processed soy foods could cause endocrine disruption and thyroid problems. Soy-based infant formula can inhibit mineral absorption and disrupt endocrine activity in infants.

The essential nutrients that contribute to good health are present in both animal-based and plant-based products. The exclusion of either group leads to the heightened possibility of various deficiencies. Therefore, the ideal diet would be one, which incorporates a judicious selection of animal and plant foods, so that nutrients particular to both groups are included.  Likewise, the risk of toxins is present in both animal and plant-based products. Both animals and plants should be produced in hygienic environments, utilizing uncontaminated feed and manure. The processing and cooking of both animal and plant-based food should be done to eliminate any toxins and retain the nutrients. (Maurer, 2002) Convincingly, the author has tried to define and analyze different understandings related to the practice of vegetarianism that asserts and prefers only a vegetable-based diet, rather than a balanced omnivorous diet. It is indicated by many researches and studies that a number of ethical, psychological, religious, cultural, and environmental factors result in the selection of a vegetarian diet, and contemporary sources do not accept the notion of cruelty towards animals through an omnivorous human diet, which is very much in parallel with natural ecosystem of the planet. It is hoped that the paper will be beneficial for the students, teachers, experts, and nonprofessionals in a better understanding of the topic.