Lacto ovo vegetarians are those people who are reluctant to consume poultry, meat, and other non-vegetarian foodstuffs, but prefer taking plant-based foods, milk, and eggs. The term 'lacto-ovo vegetarianism' is derived from the Latin words for milk (
lacto), egg (
ovo), and vegetables (
vege). Consequently, a lacto ovo vegetarian diet comprises a wide range of vegetables, along with eggs and dairy products. It is the most frequently opted vegetarianism in the United States.
Another vegetarian type is the lacto-vegetarian, wherein an individual consumes only dairy products and vegetables, but not eggs and animal products. On the contrary, those who have lactose intolerance problems prefer to be ovo-vegetarians, meaning consuming a regular diet that consists of eggs and vegetables (without milk). Among all these types of vegetarians, lacto-ovo vegetarianism is the most preferred alternative.
Most people think of becoming lacto ovo vegetarian, while converting from non-vegetarian food habits to vegetarian diet. This diet can be the best alternative to provide a balanced nutrient to the body, under the condition that one should understand the right food items to be included in the regular diet plan. The following is a guideline, which one can refer to, while planning the food menu:
Breakfast
For all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Foodstuffs that can be included are pancakes, whole-grain toast, pancake syrup, orange, cottage cheese, margarine, and skimmed milk (or coffee). The amount of servings may vary depending upon the calorie intake and/or one's body requirements.
Lunch
In lunch, one can have heavy food items, of one's own preference. Ideal foods for lunch are vegetable soup, processed cheese, sesame crackers, mushroom, cucumber, and tomato salad with regular salad dressing. One can also include baked apple (or fruit salad) and iced tea (without sugar).
Dinner
Taking a light dinner is always good for health, rather than consuming a heavy meal before bedtime. One can include the main menu with fruits and whole grain bread. In addition one can have omelet, egg whites, fresh fruits, pudding, baked cheese, margarine, and collard greens.
Snacks
For snacks, one can have raisins, peanuts, and other dried fruits that are enriched with nutrients. One can also incorporate whole grain roll and buttermilk in evening snacks. Or simply, go for the conventional snacks menu, that includes a glass of milk and one boiled egg.
An Overview
Consuming eggs and milk helps in making up the protein, lecithin, and calcium requirements of the body, which may lack in a vegetarian diet. But, incorporating too much of eggs and milk in the diet is harmful, as these food items contain high amounts of fats and cholesterol. Thus, the basic logic behind this vegetarian diet is to balance the amounts of eggs, dairy products, and vegetables.
Overall, it is considered as a dietary therapy for people who have certain medical problems. It is opined that this diet is beneficial for the people with heart diseases, obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension, and anxiety. Hence, very often, one may come across medical data, suggesting that the affected people with these health problems, make dietary changes and opt for this vegetarian diet.
There are various products in the market (for example, the Parmesan cheese) that is derived from animal source. Thus, in case of those who opt for this diet plan, one should make sure to check the food levels before including them in their meals. Furthermore, one should educate and prepare themselves about this diet in order to gain the various health benefits. Moreover, to avoid making this diet monotonous, one can try out different recipes.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.
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