Describe the major variations in how vegetarianism is practiced in India today


The definition of vegetarianism in India is elusive. It is usually considered a symbol of piety in the Brahman castes and may be a necessity among the poor. Abstinence from meat and poultry is most common; however, nearly all Indian vegetarians consume milk products, and some eat eggs. Fish is problematic because it is an inexpensive food where available. Except in the state of Gujarat (where the influence of Jainism has been especially strong), a large percentage of people living in coastal regions eat fish, sometimes justifying it as fruit of the sea. Other Indians practice vegetarianism only on days of religious observance or as they age and become more devout. Some sources suggest that vegetarianism is most prevalent in southern India due to the Muslim influence found in the North. Indian census data show this is not the case. Overall, it is believed that 30 percent of Indians are strict vegetarians, abstaining from all meat, poultry, fish, and eggs but consuming milk, yogurt, and other dairy products.

Nutritional Science

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One of the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding is that _____.

A. human milk contains few protein-bound minerals, making it more digestible for the infant B. the balance of nutrients in human milk matches requirements needed for the growth of infants C. infants need no additional fluids other than water when breastfeeding D. human milk provides very low amounts of lipids E. the high protein content in human milk provides immature kidneys with nitrogen

Nutritional Science

Positive energy balance should occur during __.

A) pregnancy and childhood.
B) participation in weight-loss programs.
C) weight loss during an illness.
D) All of the above

Nutritional Science

Omega-3 fatty acids ________.

A. include stearic and lauric acids B. must be taken through dietary supplements C. have a double bond at the third carbon from the acid end of the hydrocarbon chain D. are polyunsaturated fatty acids

Nutritional Science

Which nutrient deficiency is most likely to cause neurological damage and atrophic gastritis?

a. vitamin D b. vitamin B12 c. iron d. zinc e. calcium

Nutritional Science