World Vegetarian Day 2023: Harvesting Health

World Vegetarian Day (WVD) is annually observed on 1st October to promote and raise awareness about the benefits of a vegetarian diet and healthy lifestyle. The North American Vegetarian Society established the World WVD in 1977 and the next year, it was endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union with the objective of promoting the joy, compassion and life-enhancement possibilities of vegetarianism. 

Did you know vegetarian diets are more nutritious than non-vegetarian? Vegetarian diets tend to be lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can lead to a reduced risk of heart disease. Read this article to know all about this day.

Event	World Vegetarian Day
Date	1st October
Organising Body	North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS)
Objective	Promoting a vegetarian lifestyle on a global scale

What is World Vegetarian Day?

The WVD is celebrated on the 1st of October every year with the objective to promote the joy, compassion and life-enhancing possibilities of vegetarianism. The WVD raising awareness for the healthy, ethical, environmental and humanitarian advantages of a veg lifestyle. This day also initiates October as Vegetarian Awareness Month and 1st November marks the celebration of the month with World Vegan Day. several terms have been given to Vegetarian Awareness Month, such as the ‘Month of Vegetarian Food,’ ‘Reverance for Life’ month, etc.

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Background

WVD was first observed in 1977 by the North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS). NAVS is a nonprofit organization, founded in 1974, which was established with the objectives of promoting vegetarianism and raising awareness about the benefits of a veg diet.

In 1978, with the endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union, 1st October was chosen as the date to celebrate the WVD. Moreover, the NAVS also created World Vegetarian Awareness Month, which spans the entire month of October. During this month, various events, activities, and initiatives are organized worldwide to encourage people to try vegetarian foods, learn about vegetarianism, and consider adopting a vegetarian or plant-based diet.

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Importance of World Vegetarian Day

The idea behind WVD is to celebrate and promote a vegetarian lifestyle on a global scale. This day has provided an opportunity for various governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to educate people about the importance and benefits of a vegetarian diet, such as health benefits, environmental, sustainability, ethical considerations related to animal welfare, etc. Here are more reasons that represent the importance of WVD:

• Vegetarian foods are lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease
• Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts can improve your cardiovascular health
  
• Vegetarians have a lower risk of certain chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and certain types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer
  
• Plant-based diets are typically lower in calories and saturated fats, making them conducive to weight control
  
• Plant-based diets require fewer resources, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute less to deforestation and habitat loss
  
• Vegetarian food is naturally produced and requires less use of antibiotics
  
• Studies have shown that vegetarians may have a longer life expectancy due to their reduced risk of chronic diseases and overall healthier lifestyle choices

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