Today, there are various types of plant-based diets. Some are adapted to those who simply want to reduce their consumption of animal proteins, while others are meant for people looking to fully exclude them. Whether you’re motivated by health goals, environmental concerns, or animal ethics, there are plenty of wonderful reasons to increase the amount of plant protein in your diet. Today, we have strong scientific evidence to prove it!
Here is an overview of the different types of plant-based diets.
A flexitarian or semi-vegetarian diet is one that does not completely exclude meat, but significantly reduces meat consumption. In other words, it’s part-time vegetarianism: each person decides how often they consume animal proteins. This is sometimes the first step towards a completely vegetarian diet, a gradual progression that allows you to assess your interest in less familiar foods. By adopting a diet mainly composed of plants and the occasional portion of meat, such as fish—rich in good fats!—, flexitarians enjoy the nutritional benefits of both.
A vegetarian diet excludes animal flesh, namely meat, fish, and seafood. In some cases, vegetarians are classified under sub-categories depending on what they choose to eat. As a result, there are more complex terms such as pesco-vegetarian (fish and seafood consumption), lacto-vegetarian (dairy consumption), and lacto-ovo-vegetarian (dairy and egg consumption).
A vegan or strict vegetarian diet excludes all animal-derived products, so no animal flesh, milk, eggs, or honey! Vegans’ meals are completely plant-based. They must therefore pay closer attention to their consumption of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and omega 3. However, it is entirely possible to have a balanced diet that meets your needs with this type of nutrition.
Veganism is more of a lifestyle. In addition to adopting a specific diet, like vegetarians, a vegan will not buy any products originating from animal exploitation, such as fur, leather, wool, and animal-tested products. Much more than a diet, veganism is a lifestyle that centres on animal ethics.
No matter what kind of diet you choose to adopt, it’s important to stay informed by seeking out reliable sources and to consult a nutritionist if necessary. Your diet must be adapted to your needs to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
Virginie Lamontagne, Nutritionist at Rachelle Béry
