Whether to become a vegetarian or not is a question many people face on a regular basis and the answer to this is not always clear to them. So how will it change things in your life and for the planet? Individually it probably won't as it is only a small scale thing but if many people feel the same way, it does have an effect on the lives of many animals. People who eat large quantities of meat as part of their regular diet are more likely to suffer form heart disease; this is especially true for Americans.

Circulatory, heart problems, high cholesterol and heart attacks are primarily caused by the regular consumption of dairy products, eggs and meat; a reduction in this consumption would lower these health problems. In fact the group Earth Save states that a vegetarian has around 25 percent less chance of a heart attack than someone who consumes meat as part of their diet. Pure vegans have an even lower likelihood of a heart attack with only a 10 percent chance against a meat eater. In addition to heart health, you will get a number of other health benefits as a vegetarian.

Meat contains a number of preservatives which have links with cancer, something which is dramatically reduced when you do not eat meat. Animal feed also contains hormones to make them put weight on faster so vegetarians are not usually exposed to these chemicals which most people consume everyday. Some digestive conditions are claimed to be caused by a reaction to lactose which is avoided if you are a non-meat eater. In addition to health benefits you will receive as an individual by becoming a vegetarian, you will also reduce your share of the suffering human beings inflict on animals.

In fact the death toll of animals may be far greater than expected with figures in the region of 2,700 eaten by an average American in their lifetime. It is a sobering thought that a change in diet could literally save hundreds of animals from being slaughtered over the course of a decade alone. The suffering of many cows and battery farmed hens would also be reduced if you were to give up eggs and milk as well. Well after reading this it is obvious the easy answer is yes it is better to become a vegetarian. An improvement in your overall health with less chance of cancer or a heart condition and the reduction of animal deaths provide a compelling argument.