Impact of vegetarian versus non-vegetarian diet on health outcomes in male individuals: A comparative study

Background

Vegetarianism versus non-vegetarianism is a perfect example of an opposing view of a healthy diet. Vegetarians consume plant-based foods whereas non-vegetarians consume animal-based foods.

Aims and objectives

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets on different health outcomes such as anthropometric measurements, sleep quality, and mindfulness in male individuals of ages 16–25 years.

Materials and methods

Sixty subjects were recruited from two different hostels. The total subjects were divided into two groups i.e., vegetarian group (n = 30) was fed a vegetarian diet and non-vegetarian group (n = 30) was fed a non-vegetarian diet for 3 months. The subjects were assessed for anthropometry, PSQI scoring, and mindfulness at baseline and after three months.

Results

On comparison of variables between the two groups, a significant difference has been observed. In the comparison of anthropometric data, there was a significant difference in BMI (p < 0.001) between the groups. PSQI scores showed a significant difference between the groups with mean global scores: group 1: 3.03 ± 2.5; group 2: 5.14 ± 2.23. Mindful eating among vegetarians was significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A vegetarian diet had a positive impact on health outcomes compared to a non-vegetarian diet.