Vegan vs Vegetarian Diet: Which Is Actually Healthier?

Vegan vs Vegetarian Diet: The two lifestyles of veganism and vegetarianism create so much debate when it comes to eating plant-based. True, both of them do not eat meat; however, the difference lies in how strictly they avoid animal derivatives; but which one proves to be healthier in reality? Here’s the breakdown:

What Is The Difference?

Vegetarian Diet:
Basically, vegetarians eat anything but meat, poultry, and fish. They usually eat dairy products and eggs as well. Some types of vegetarians include lacto-vegetarians (who include dairy), ovo-vegetarians (who include eggs), and lacto-ovo vegetarians (who include both).

Vegan Diet:
Vegans are those people who have eliminated all animal products from their diet-meat, eggs, dairy, and even honey get banned in their list. With regard to food, they usually consider fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and legumes for their diet.

Comparison of Health Benefits

Both diets have several health advantages; however, there are slight differences in their effect.

Advantages of Vegan Diets:

Fewer chances of suffering from heart disease and high cholesterol.

Better blood sugar control that decreases the chances of getting diabetes.

Facilitates weight loss because of low-calorie density.

Abundant in antioxidants and fibers from fruits and vegetables.

Benefits of Vegetarian Diets:

Easier maintenance of a nutrient balance through inclusion of dairy and eggs.

A good source of vitamin B12, calcium, and protein.

Lower chances of obesity and some cancers.

Flexibility makes this type of maintenance feasible for the long term.

Nutritional Disadvantages

The important nutrients for brain and heart health that may be missing in a vegan diet are vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acid.

A vegetarian diet can sometimes be high in cholesterol due to the inclusion of dairy and eggs if they are not managed properly.

Which is overall healthier?

Ultimately, both can be very healthy diets if well planned. Usually, vegans have less body mass and better heart health markers, where vegetarians usually have a relatively more balanced mix of nutrients.

The healthiest choice will depend on how balanced your plate is – and not just the label. Make sure to choose whole, unprocessed foods and proper nutrient supplementation, regardless of your preference.

Also Read: Diet or Exercise: Which Matters More for Weight Loss?