Ask The Nutritionist

Question

Hi Rick, I was reading what was said about vegetarians living longer. I couldn?t help but remember Paul McCartney?s wife who was a vegetarian who died in her 50's from breast cancer. Do vegetarians really live longer?

Answer

Research validates that, in general, vegetarians do live healthier and often longer than omnivores. However, being a meatless eater does not guarantee a longer lifespan. Too many factors need to be considered: genetics, stress, alcohol intake, smoking, exercise, etc.... That may have been the point, actually, of the article you read. Vegetarians tend to live healthier lifestyles (generally speaking, of course) than omnivores. However, they tend to exercise more, smoke less, and are often concerned about their health. Still, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and just about every major health organization recognize the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains. As an omnivore, I have looked objectively at the research and have come to the same conclusions as the ACS.