There are many variations of the vegetarian diet: a lacto-vegetarian diet includes dairy products, an ovo-vegetarian diet includes eggs, and a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet includes both.

To get the most out of a vegetarian diet, choose a variety of healthy plant-based foods. These include whole fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Nuts and legumes, such as lentils, beans and peanuts, also are considered healthy plant-based foods. At the same time, cut back on less healthy choices.

Whether you are becoming a vegetarian yourself, or simply trying to better support your vegetarian friends and family, we hope this list and chart have been helpful!

A vegetarian diet can meet all a person's nutritional needs if planned thoughtfully. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, avoid saturated fats, watch calories and portions, and be physically active.

A vegetarian diet means you eat mainly plant-based foods. This diet stays away from animal products and instead includes fruits, vegetables and legumes.

What To Know About the Vegetarian Diet - Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials

We explain the pros and cons to becoming vegetarian, plus provide information about food substitutes and other things you need to know to follow this diet, including how to start, how to manage...

vegetarianism, the theory or practice of living solely upon vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, and nuts —with or without the addition of milk products and eggs —generally for ethical, ascetic, environmental, or nutritional reasons.