Unit 3 - Nutrition (e-book)

3.3 Nutrition for special requirements

3.3.2 Vegetarian

The vegetarian diet involves abstaining from eating meat, fish and poultry. People often adopt a vegetarian diet for religious, personal reasons or environmental reasons.

Vegetarians may also have dysphagia. These people, as well as those who eat a diet with all food groups, should modify their diet in texture according to guidelines set by a medical professional.

A vegetarian diet should include a diverse mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, healthy fats and proteins.

To replace the protein provided by meat in diet, include a variety of protein-rich plant foods like nuts, seeds, legumes, tempeh, tofu and seitan as well as eggs and dairy products can also boost protein intake.

Figure 22. Vegetarian (Source: obtained from Canva Pro)



Vegetarian Pyramid Vegetarians have to avoid the following foods in their diet:

  • Meat: Beef, veal and pork

  • Poultry: Chicken and turkey

  • Fish and shellfish: This restriction does not apply to pescetarians.

  • Meat-based ingredients: Gelatin, lard, carmine, isinglass, oleic acid and suet

  • Other animal products: Vegans may choose to avoid honey, beeswax and pollen.



Figure 23. Vegetarian Pyramid (Source: designed by Canva Pro)