People around the world are shifting from non-veg to healthy veg and plant-based diets. People are becoming health conscious, aiming for preventive healthcare. They want to live longer, be healthy, and avoid the risk of developing chronic health conditions, thus the world is celebrating October as a vegetarian month to promote goodness and healthy eating.

World Vegetarian Day

World Vegetarian Day is celebrated on 1 October 2022 every year to promote a vegetarian diet. It also encourages people to go vegetarian as it is good for their health and the environment also. 

India has the lowest per capita meat consumption in the world.

History

World vegetarian day was founded by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) in 1977 to raise awareness about the benefits of a vegetarian diet and also encourage people to save animal lives.

The International Vegetarian Union also endorsed the day in 1978. The beginning of October also kickstarts the 'Month of Vegetarian Food'. It is an event initiated by the International Vegetarian Union to promote the health benefits of plant-based diets and products.

Significance of the vegetarian day

Vegetarianism not only saves animals but also helps conserve fossil fuels. Vegetarianism is 780 percent more efficient than meat production. The vegetarian and plant-based diet is high in fiber, folic acid, vitamins C and E, magnesium, unsaturated fat, and tons of phytochemicals resulting in lower cholesterol, reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure and a healthier weight. It’s a myth that vegetarian food lacks taste and all forms of nutrition. Even vegetarian food provides all kinds of nutrition, you just need to have the right form of food. 

Reasons to go vegetarian

• You will protect your heart
• You will reduce the risk of cancer
• Your plate will be colourful
• Your meals will be delicious
• You will help reduce waste and air pollution
• Your bones will last longer
• You will protect yourself from foodborne disease
• You will help protect the fish population
• You will protect the purity of the water
• You will help save animal cruelty