The Claim: Vegetarian is the healthiest way to eat.

Woman: “I think it’s healthier to eat vegetarian because you’re able to put things into your body that are a lot more natural than eating meat.”

Man: “I’ve had a really good experience as a vegetarian and feel great. Before I became a vegetarian I was in a bad place.”

Robert Davis: People decide to go vegetarian for all kinds of valid reasons. For some, it’s about animal welfare. For others, the environment.

But what about your health? Is a vegetarian diet really better for you?
Well, it all depends on what you’re comparing it to.

Large, long-term studies in the U.S and Europe have found that vegetarians — that is, non meat-eaters — tend to be leaner and have lower cholesterol levels than those consuming a standard diet.

They also have lower rates of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

But research shows similar benefits in people who consume a mostly plant diet, which may include fish or small amounts of meat.

So, while going vegetarian is healthier than eating a typical American diet, it’s unclear whether it beats a healthy diet consisting mainly of fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans and nuts – along with some meat, fish or chicken.

Sorting all this out is tricky in part because vegetarians vary in what they eat.

Some, known as vegans, shun all animal products, while others include eggs or dairy. Still others eat fish.

And then there are vegetarians who live on junk food like chips, soda, and fries, which are not exactly healthy.

One common concern is that vegetarians are at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

While it can be harder for vegetarians – especially vegans — to get adequate amounts of nutrients such as calcium and vitamin B-12, it is possible with proper planning.

Without question, vegetarian can be a healthy way to go. But it’s not the only path to healthy eating. And simply shunning meat doesn’t necessarily make a diet more healthful. What matters is your overall eating pattern – an idea worth chewing on for vegetarians and omnivores alike.

Helping you be a healthy skeptic, I’m Robert Davis.