Vegetarian Awareness Month: Will you eat meat-free in October?

Yes

October is Vegetarian Awareness Month, according to the North American Vegetarian Society. October 1st was World Vegetarian Day, or Hug a Vegetarian Day if you ask PETA.

NAVS says of the month-long celebration of meat-free diets, "For those new to vegetarianism, it serves as an enticement to give meatless fare a try (even for a day) and learn about its many benefits. And, of course, it's the perfect occasion for vegetarians and those already moving towards plant-based diets to celebrate their healthy, compassionate food choices."

There are many reasons that vegetarians and flexitarians (people who eat meat only occasionally, like once a week) choose a meat-free diet. Plant-based diets are often healthier and people who avoid meat generally weight less than those who don't. Some people have ethical objections to either factory farming or any kind of killing for food. Others choose not to eat meat to have a positive impact on the environment -- some experts, including advisors to the UN, have said that avoiding meat is one of the most effective ways to reduce your climate change impact. Of course, that's disputable -- Fox News disputes it, at least.

But most of us can agree that eating less meat is probably a good thing. The best part? You don't have to go full-on PETA-style vegan to embrace the message of Vegetarian Awareness Month. Cut meat out of your diet one day each week in October, and you'll have a positive impact in addition to trying something new and personally benifical. Plus, you'll be in good company.

Will you choose meat-free options during Vegetarian Awareness Month?

Eleanor Brown

Vegetarian Awareness Month: Will you eat meat-free in October?

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