Vegetarian diets and cancer risk

Excerpt

Vegetarian diets contain vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds [1]. They are devoid of flesh foods (such as meat, poultry, wild game and their products) and may or may not include eggs and dairy products (vegan diet) [1]. A pescatarian diet is a vegetarian diet that includes fish and is devoid of flesh foods [1]. In many countries, the number of people who adopt a vegetarian diet is increasing, and there are several main reasons for this [2]. Ethical concerns about animal welfare and environmental sustainability motivate the adoption of a vegetarian diet [3]. Vegetarian diets are associated with increased environmental sustainability through reduced greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and water use [4]. Health improvements and weight loss are other strong motivators for the adoption of a vegetarian diet [3]. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics of the USA, vegetarian diets are associated with better health outcomes, an increased life expectancy, and a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and obesity [1]. Furthermore, vegetarian diets are also considered to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer [1]. …