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From vegan to pescatarian, celiac to lactose intolerant, kosher to halal and everything in between, diversity in dietary preferences and restrictions has never been as great as it is today. Veganism, vegetarianism, pescatarianism and exclusively organic diets are some of the most popular trends to have emerged in recent years, for reasons that range from religious practices and health benefits to environmental protection. But what do all of these terms mean, what do they have in common and how are they benefiting our bodies? Strict diets and food restrictions are sometimes challenging and expensive for students to cope with, but Her Campus uOttawa has all the tools you’ll need to transition to whichever lifestyle fits your needs, budget and appetite!
Who? Vegan
What? A vegan diet is one that abstains from consuming any animal products, including eggs, milk, fish and animal fats.
Where? Try visiting PSP (Perfection, Satisfaction, Promise) located on Laurier Ave E. only a minute off campus to discover how veganism and serenity go hand in hand. The calm, peaceful atmosphere alongside the friendly staff and delicious dinners (ranging from vegan soups to “painted potatoes” that are topped with the curry of your choice) will prove to be an amazing escape from your day-to-day stressful student life. Prices range from 5-15$. 167 Laurier Ave East.
Why? For many, the primary difference between veganism and vegetarianism has to do with the fact that vegans refuse to use any products that are made from animals (even if the production of the product doesn’t require the animal to die). Many vegans have personal values and morals that they base their decision on. On the other hand, some vegans simply prefer supplementing any necessary vitamins and protein sources that most people get from animal (by)products with seeds, leafy vegetables and soy products because it gives them a better sense of where their food came from and what went into producing it.
Who? Vegetarian
What? A vegetarian diet is one that does not include the consumption of meats (poultry, red meat, fish). Vegetarians do consume other animal products including milk and eggs.
Where? Check out Govinda’s Vegetarian Buffet, only a five-minute walk from campus. This unconventional, quaint little “restaurant” is operated by a Hare Krishna Temple and offers students a 5$ vegetarian, Indian buffet that often comprises 2-3 curries, a soup, a salad, a small dessert and water. Take-away is available if you bring your own container. 212 Somerset St East. 5-8pm, Mon-Fri.
Why? Many chose a vegetarian diet based on religious practices (several paths of Hinduism and Jainism reject the consumption of meat). Others believe that meat-producing industries are unsustainable and have negative impacts on the environment, so theirs is a decision of environmental concern. A vegetarian diet can often be economically beneficial, as many alternative sources of protein and essential vitamins/minerals can be found in cheaper products than meat, including beans, nuts, quinoa, tofu and chickpeas (to name a few).
Who? Pescatarian
What? A pescatarian diet is similar to a vegetarian diet except that it permits the consumption of fish.
Where? One of the greatest benefits of being a pescatarian (at least in my opinion) is the possibility of indulging in traditional sushi. Visit SushiGo Express in the market to try an array of fresh, handcrafted rolls with seafood and shellfish options that include tuna, smoked salmon, fresh salmon, crab, shrimp and more. Ask about their customer loyalty card to earn rewards with each visit and to try a sample of their delicious tea of the day. Prices range from 5-20$. 48 Byward Market.
Why? Many pescatarians avoid animal meats (red meat in particular) because of the high level of saturated fats that they often contain. Fish tend to provide healthy sources of omega-3 fatty acids while reducing the risks of heart disease that often come from a meat-inclusive diet. For many, pescatarianism is a “phase” during the transition to vegetarianism or veganism.
Who? The organic eater
What? An organic diet is one that relies exclusively on products that are organic-certified, meaning that they were produced without modern synthetic inputs such as pesticides, chemical fertilizers, steroids or hormones. Canadian food and agricultural regulations require 95% of a product’s ingredients to be organic to receive this certification.
Where? Grocery shopping at Loblaws can make following an organic diet much simpler. With the PC Organic brand name, it’s easy to differentiate organic products from the rest. Some organic products tend to be slightly more expensive than their non-organic counterparts, but buying from the store’s brand name (PC Organics) can offset that cost as opposed to buying the other organic labels.
Why? Many practice organic diets to reduce the environmental impact that large-scale, non-organic farming can have on the environment which often damages soils, water sources and aquatic wildlife. Others enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no pesticides or chemicals were used to produce the vegetables they eat, and that the meat they consume does not come from an animal that was injected with growth hormones.
At times, several of the diets listed above can seem to overlap, be appealing but challenging or seem daunting to adapt. For those who aren’t sure what dietary lifestyle best suits their needs and body, check out a new resource located steps away from campus.
Who: Ribkoff Holistic Health
What: This brand new and exciting company offers Metabolic Typing which helps you find the right balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates – whether you’re a vegan, a vegetarian or a meat lover. This balance helps:
– Increase metabolic rate, therefore burning body fat
– Increase lean muscle mass
– Increase your energy levels throughout the day
– Strengthen your immune system to maximize your genetic potential
Where: Visit www.ribkoffholistichealth.com for more information or to sign up for a free consultation.
Why: Because what you put into your body is reflective of what you’ll get out of it, and there’s no better time to start improving your health and lifestyle than yesterday (but since you missed the boat on that one, try catching up today)!
Photocredits:
http://www.chickagoan.com/its-farmers-market-time/
http://darsonoww.blogspot.ca/2012_04_01_archive.html
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