A well-planned vegetarian diet is extremely healthy: high in fibre and low in saturated fats. However, keep in mind these basic guidelines:

• The protein in vegetable proteins is less concentrated than in animal proteins so portions need to be bigger
• Some other important nutrients are also less concentrated in vegetable protein so take care to include foods rich in iron, zinc, calcium and vitamin B12
• The balance of amino acids is different in vegetable protein foods so you need to eat a variety of foods, and include a serving with each meal

For more information, contact the Vegetarian Society or the Vegan Society.

Reviewed by babyworld midwife Hannah Hulme Hunter