Indeed, vegetarianism is making a strong impact on the food industry. Several countries like Brazil, Germany, Jamaica, Switzerland, and Vietnam have 1/10th of their population being vegetarian.

Also, vegetarianism is gaining popularity because of its environmental benefits and positive effects on mental and physical health.

Those who mainly eat vegetarian food consume legumes, fruits, grains, vegetables, and dairy products. Compared with meat-eating omnivores, the vegetarian had blood pressure about 7mm Hg and 5mm Hg, respectively.

Types of Vegetarians

1. Lacto-ovo-vegetarian

People who are Lacto-ovo-vegetarians do not eat meat and seafood but include dairy foods (like milk, cheese, curd, etc.), eggs, and plant foods.

This diet is well-catered in shops and restaurants and especially in some parts of European and metro-politician cities in North America.

2. Ovo-Vegetarian

The Ovo-Vegetarian diet allows the consumption of eggs but not dairy products. Also, they do not eat seafood and meat in their diet plan.

3. Vegan

People who follow vegan diets avoid animal products and eat plant-based foods.

Vegetarian Diet Helps in Maintaining Blood Pressure

Vegetarianism provides several health benefits like reduced risk of chronic diseases, diabetes, obesity, and more. According to studies, the consumption of a vegetarian diet is associated with a reduction in high blood pressure in comparison to an omnivore's diet.

Therefore, adopting a vegetarian diet plays an important role in managing hypertension. Hypertension is a silent killer and does not show any signs and symptoms.

However, some might experience short moments of lightheadedness and usual nosebleeds. Minerals in vegetarian food like green leafy vegetables, tofu, whole grains, dried fruits, and cereal products transport the oxygen in the blood.

Furthermore, a lower level of zinc also increases blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended to eat food like legumes, tofu, nuts, and wholegrain foods to enhance the development of the immune system. Vegan and vegetarian diets are appropriate for all stages of an individual’s life.

Also, consuming a vegetarian diet is safe for pregnant women. It provides essential nutrients and supplements that are needed for the development of a baby.

WHO Reports Multiple Risk Factors in Hypertension

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), several multiple risk factors can occur when you are experiencing hypertension. The modifiable risk factors could include unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking alcohol, excessive salt consumption, and more.

Non-modifiable risk factors could be a family history of hypertension and being over 60 years of age.

Final Words

A vegetarian diet offers essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy life and provides healthy growth and development. Besides maintaining blood pressure, a vegetarian diet also helps in preventing arthritis.

Also, consuming a vegetarian diet provides protein which is essential for repair and tissue building.