This paper discusses the official position of The American Dietetic Association (ADA) on vegetarian diets, which states that “appropriately planned vegetarian diets are healthful, are nutritionally adequate, and provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.”

The specific eating patterns of vegetarians vary, and in many cases individual assessment is necessary to evaluate the overall quality of the diet. However, overall, studies indicate that vegetarians have lower mortality rates and lower rates of occurrence of several chronic degenerative diseases than non-vegetarians. These health benefits are largely due to the low fat, low cholesterol tendencies of the vegetarian diet.

Nutritionally, plant sources of protein can provide adequate levels of essential amino acids when consumed with proper attention. Meal planning can ensure proper nutrition if a wide variety of foods are consumed. Specific nutritional profiles of various foods are included in this article, as well as a food guide pyramid for vegetarian meal planning.