Book Title: Jainism The Cosmic Vision
Author(s): Kumarpal Desai
Publisher: UK Mahavir Foundation London

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Page 84
________________ Vegetarianism Paul was vehement when he argued, "The most essential thing for man for survival and health is protein. This protein requirement is ensured from meat and eggs. Protein deficiency makes people weak and cowardly. Thus non-vegetarianism is inevitable for human health." In turn, I put him a question, "Will you please tell me how much protein a human body needs ?" Then I added further, “In case protein is obtained from meat and eggs alone, how does the most mighty animal, the African elephant ensures its protein requirement, even though it is a vegetarian animal ? Which meat food provides vigour to a strong bull or an energetic horse ?" My presentation nonplused Paul. I continued further, “Dear friend, man's protein requirement is only 4 per cent." Rene interrupted and said, “I believe it. The issue of protein requirement is exaggerated by meat and egg producers. Latest research has also disclosed that most human body doesn't need more of protein." I picked up my point and added, "You shall be surprised to know that a bowlful of vegetables or spinage would give you more quantum of protein than what 1 kg of meat would provide and that, too, at some risk!" Stella was too quick to catch my word 'little risk' and soon she asked, "As for protein requirement, how do you evaluate vegetables as having little risk from meat ?" Rene was knowledgeable and he seemed to support my point. He said, “Vegetables and spinage provides you protein alone whereas, besides protein, meat provides you fat and cholesterol which are harmful to human health." 67 Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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