Vegetarianism Scientific And Spiritual Basis

Author(s): Jashwant B Mehta
Publisher: Jashwant B Mehta

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antitumour activity and boost immune system action against disease
producing microorganisms. 5. Onion, along with its culinary properties, helps prevent blood clot and heart
attacks. It has also shown to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 6. Papaya is known for its ability to aid digestion. It contains enzymes that helps
to digest proteins. Papaya is a rich source of beta-carotene and vitamin B & C. 7. Potato is a good source of vegetable protein, potassium, vitamin C, iron,
phosphorus and enzymes. It relieves water retention and can sometimes be
used to reduce hypertension and promote intestinal flora. 8. Pumpkin is a good source of beta-carotene, calcium, iron & some vitamin B. It
helps to regulate blood sugar levels and is thus beneficial to hypoglycaemics. 9. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, chlorophyll, beta-carotene,
vitamin C, riboflavin, sodium and potassium. It also has a diuretic and
laxative effect. 10. Sprouts are rich in chlorophyll, vitamin A, C, D, E, K, B complex and
minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and iron. They are diuretic, appetizers and detoxify the body.
It may be mentioned that i. Turmeric : It also has unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties. It retards age related diseases by preventing free radical damage, inhibits growth of cancer cells, protects liver from cholesterol level, alleviates joint swellings, reduces menstrual pain and has a
beneficial effect in the treatment of AIDS. ii. Mustard : Mustard is a popular culinary herb that stimulates the appetite
and helps digestion. iii. Curd : Nutritional benefit of curd is to reinforce the intestines with
additional friendly bacteria promoting the growth of intestines flora.
(b) Advantages of a vegetarian diet
Vegetarian diets are lower in saturated fats, cholesterol, and animal protein. They are also high in folate, anti-oxidant vitamins like C and E, carotenoids, and phytochemicals. Overall, vegetarians have substantially reduced risks for obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and some forms of cancer-particularly lung cancer and colon cancer. Research has clearly established a link between meat eating and cancer of the colon, rectum, breasts, and uterus. Vegetarian diets that are low in saturated fats have been successfully used to reverse severe coronary artery disease. Those vegetarians who regularly take such vegetables have a good natural source of supply of calcium and therefore they suffer less from osteoporosis (a deficiency of calcium that leads to weak bones).
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