Vegetarianism has become very popular for the last few years. However, the question whether it is beneficial or harmful to our health provokes a lot of heated discussion. In my opinion, vegetarianism is greatand should be popularised among people.
First of all, it must be said that vegetarianism is not only a diet or fashion but also a kind of philosophy and attitude towards life. Its basis is respect of life therefore vegetarians do not eat any food which production involved death of an animal. Vegetarian diet excludes meat, poultry, fish, shrimps or crabs. Many vegetarians treat animals as equal to human being and as their friends. Eating ham or a piece of bacon is unacceptable for them as this means, in fact, eating their friend. Therefore, all people who call themselves animal lovers but at the same time enjoy eating roasted chicken or a steak seem to be liars. Vegetarians show real love and care for animals and by refusing to eat meat, save many creatures' lives. Moreover, they prevent animals from suffering as slaughter very often involves cruelty. Vegetarians show that not only human life deserves respect but life in general.
Moreover, vegetarian diet appears to be healthy. Eating too much meat and animal fat leads not only to obesity but also to heart diseases, including heart attacks. Another problem can be the high level of cholesterol. As a vegetarian diet includes a lot of fruit and vegetables, it provides the organism with proper amount of protein, vitamins, fats and minerals. Besides, it is easier to keep fit and to be slim if you do not eat fatty food.
However, there are people who claim that a healthy diet has to include meat and animal fat which provide our organisms with elements which vegetables and vitamins do not contain. Moreover, it is said that animal protein is indispensable for a proper growth and development of a child. Some people prove their point against vegetarians saying that a man is a meat eater from the very beginning as the prehistoric people fed on meat. The opponents of vegetarianism say that it is our natural inclination to enjoy kebab or roasted beef.
All things considering, it is obvious that the popularity of vegetarianism is increasing, especially that many celebrities admit to following that diet. It cannot be denied that there are many critics of it, however I still believe that vegetarians are healthier and more cheerful than "meat eaters".
