Re-edited Vegetarianism

Vegetarianism on Campus
By: Hannah Kramer
Steaks are juicy and McDonald’s BLT sandwich is delicious, which is why most people include these foods in their diet. Vegetarians, though, don’t. A vegetarian is someone whose diet does not include meat, poultry or fish. Annabelle Pfeffer, a freshman, has been a vegetarian for almost six years. “I feel bad for not really liking [the taste of] animals, and because the thought of eating another living thing grosses me out.” says Pfeffer, on being on a vegetarian.
According to The Vegetarian Resource Group’s website, in a poll of 1978 men and women, 24% follows some type of vegetarian diet; 11% does not eat meat, 6% does not eat poultry, and 7% does not eat seafood of any kind.
Pfeffer includes fish in her diet, because “…even the thought of it dying doesn’t over-power the amazing taste,” she says. “I could never, ever give up my sushi!”
Nutritionist Dr. Ronni Julian explains the health concerns that come along with being a vegetarian. “There is a right way and a wrong way,” states Julian. “Vegetarianism, when not educated about, leaves several serious nutrients deficient in the daily diet. Oftentimes, people just eliminate whole groups of food such as meat and chicken, sometimes even whole animal products.”
Eliminating all animal products is called veganism. A not only does not eat animals, but they also do not eat their by products; such as dairy or eggs. Around 2.5% of Americans are considered vegans.
Julian suggests that in order to become a healthy vegan, one needs to get the proper intake of proteins and iron by eating sufficient amounts of fruits, beans, vegetables and nuts. It is important to make sure to intake necessary vitamins that are normally found in meats, milk, and eggs; such as B-12, which is vital in the production of blood and functioning of the nervous system.
Freshman, Annie Rudd is a vegan and has been all her life. “I was disgusted by meat in general,” she states. “Something happens every time I eat meat.” She mostly eats fruits.
Deciding to become a vegetarian or vegan is the easy part. Maintaining this lifestyle is the difficult part. It is important to eat healthily, acquire the necessary nutrients, and if needed, take supplemental vitamins.