Ovo-lacto vegetarianism facts for kids

Ovo-lacto vegetarianism is a way of eating where people do not eat the meat of animals. This includes things like beef, chicken, and fish. However, people who follow this diet do eat eggs and dairy products. Dairy products come from milk, like cheese, yogurt, and butter.

This type of vegetarian diet is very common in many parts of the Western world. This means places like Europe and North America. It is often easy to find suitable food in restaurants in these areas.

What is Ovo-Lacto Vegetarianism?

Ovo-lacto vegetarianism is a diet that avoids all animal flesh. This means no meat, poultry, or seafood. The "ovo" part means eggs are included. The "lacto" part means dairy products are included. So, people on this diet eat foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, and eggs. They also eat lots of plant-based foods. These include fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds.

Why Choose This Diet?

People choose an ovo-lacto vegetarian diet for different reasons. Some people follow it because of their religious beliefs. Certain religions encourage or require a vegetarian lifestyle.

Others choose this diet for health reasons. They might believe it is good for their body. Eating more plant-based foods can be part of a healthy lifestyle. It can help them feel good and stay strong.

Some people also choose this diet for ethical reasons. They might care about animal welfare. They may not want to eat animals.

Common Foods for Ovo-Lacto Vegetarians

People on an ovo-lacto vegetarian diet have many food choices. They can enjoy a wide range of plant-based foods. These include fresh fruits and vegetables. They also eat grains like rice, pasta, and bread. Legumes, such as beans and lentils, are also common. Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and protein.

Since they eat eggs, they can have scrambled eggs or omelets. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also part of their diet. These foods offer important nutrients. They help people get enough protein and calcium.

Images for kids

• 

  A delicious vegetarian buffet with many choices.

• 

  An Aegean Airlines lacto-ovo vegetarian airline meal served in 2018.