Vegetarian, Healthy?

Question
Dear Sarah,
I am a 14 year old girl, and I had sopped eating meat completely when I was 12. Unlike my other friends, I wasn't addicted to meat, and I easily holded on to this diet. But everyone kept on telling me that I am doing the wrong thing. My dance teacher's doctor said that if I don't eat meat, then I can look like a 50 year old when I will be 20 and my nails won't grow. So that was the day when I placed the first piece of pork into my mouth.

That did not last long, because all the meat just didn't feel right for me to eat. So I started eating chicken only until I grow up. But sometimes I ask myself if I am doing the right thing eating animals? I want to protect them, not kill them.

Is it healthy to not eat meat? Or am I ruining myself? Our family doctor said that after I stopped eating meat, I started eating more food like bread, macaroni, pizza, candies etc. and I started gaining weight. This is not very good because I am over weight for my age and height.

This caused my heart to hurt once in a while and all the bad food caused other organs to cause pain once in a while. The problem is that I don't want to eat meat. It doesn't feel right. Do you know any foods that will make me feel ok that do not consist of any kinds of meat except for fish (I still eat fish)?

Please help!

Answer
Hi Aly!  The good news is not eating meat can be very healthy, especially if you are still eating fish, milk, and eggs.  In fact, that type of eating has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and increase lifespan (many people who live to be over 100 eat very little or no meat).  The bad news is not eating meat is not going to be healthy if you replace meat with pizza, macaroni, and candy, which it sounds like you were doing.  Meat should be replaced with plant foods that will still provide you with the protein and iron you need, such as beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.  You should also be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables so you are getting all the nutrients you need.  Fruits and vegetables are also low in calories (in the raw state or cooked without fat) so if you have a problem with weight they can help you fill up with less calories.  Taking a vitamin every day will also help make sure you are getting the nutrients you need.

There are many websites that can give you tips on how to get all the nutrients you need without eating meat.  www.vegetariantimes.com  and  www.vegan.org  are good sources.

Good luck working on your eating habits.  It's a shame your family and doctor are not more supportive of your decision but I am sure they only want what is best for you.

1. Prev:nasal polyps
2. Next:potassium in milk