You are what you eat. Food plays a crucial role in how we feel and the energy we carry.

Ayurveda describes the various effects of different foods on the body and mind using three qualities: sattva, rajas and tamas. Non-Veg food or meat, create tamas, which is low energy and lethargy. On the other hand, foods that come directly from the earth are sattvic in nature and create more energy and lightness.

Vegetarianism and non vegetarianism has existed since time immemorial. In the modern context, nutritionists swear by the protein rich non-veg food.

Apart from religious and ethical reasons many decide to become vegetarian for environmental reasons, as livestock production increases greenhouse gas emissions. To breed and take care of animals requires large amounts of water, energy and natural resources. This has an effect on climate.

Benefits of cutting meat from your diet

Food does have religious connotations but in the modern world it is also about the choices we make. Certain religions propose ahimsa or non-violence and strongly peace vegetarian or plant based diets.

Medical research shows that a well-planned vegetarian diet may also reduce your risk of chronic disease like diabetes, cancer and heart failure.

Sushma Jain who turned vegan says says, “I used to savour non- veg food till the time I discovered Yoga in my life. I shifted to vegan foods and feel much   happier and peaceful. A vegetarian diet means good karma and I don’t  feel guilty anymore.”

People who have been consuming non-veg food since childhood believe that meat provides their bodies with the energy and vitality. Many athletes and sporstmen are recommended protein rich non-veg diets of poultry, fish and eggs.

Yoga teaches that we are the result of body and mind. The health of the body cannot be separated from the mind and, obviously, the foods we eat impact our bodies and how we feel. The things you choose to put directly into your body say a lot about your beliefs and roots.

Historical perspective

Vegetarianism began during the Vedic period some time thousands of years ago as far back as 5000 B.C.E.. Ancient Indian texts state that a plant-based diet was in-line with a spiritual path and helps us in connecting  with a higher self. The Upanishads  described the idea of rebirth and the law of Karma in Bhagwad Gita talks of how humans could be born into the body of an animal in a future life.

The negative energy of killing animals has been said to disturb one’s state of peace during meditation.

Downside of Vegetarianism

Vegetarian diet can be healthy and nutritious. However, doctors point out it may increase your risk of certain nutritional deficiencies.

Meat, poultry and fish supply a good amount of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as micronutrients like zinc, selenium, iron and vitamin B12.

Animal dairy products and eggs also contain plenty of calcium, vitamin D and B vitamins. If you are going veg it is important to ensure you’re getting these essential nutrients from other sources.

A wholesome diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein sources is to ensure you’re getting appropriate nutrition. A fortified cereal breakfast with muesli, wholemeal bread, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Along with this a small glass of fruit juice rich in vitamin C can optimize your body’s iron intake.

Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in oily fish which help maintain a healthy heart. For vegetarians, these can be found in flaxseed oil, soya oil and soya based foods and walnuts.

Multivitamins and supplements are another option to compensate for potential deficiencies.

Finally, it’s the choice you make.