Difference Between Vegan & Vegetarian Diets

written by runnergirl training

Ever get confused on diet names? For example, vegetarian and vegan diets are similar but yet have distinct differences. There are a variety of subsets for general diet terms but let's explore the main differences. 


A vegetarian diet typically excludes meat including beef, seafood & poultry. Various subsets from there can include or exclude eggs, milk & other animal products. 

A Vegan diet is characterized by excluding meat, dairy & animal products (such as honey). Some vegans avoid all products that have been tested on animals (like makeup) or clothes and household products (made of leather). 

Those who follow vegetarian or vegans diets may be at risk of having protein, vitamin or mineral deficiencies. It may benefit them to consult a doctor or nutritionist to evaluate the need for supplements (multivitamin, etc) to ensure basic nutritional needs are met. 

Vegetarian and vegan diets have a lot of positive aspects and people to adopt their lifestyles for a variety of reasons. When switching the way you eat check with a doctor or nutritionist to make sure your body receives the best nutrition possible.