The American Dietetics Association is the worlds largest independent, non-partisan authority on nutrition and health. In the latest edition of their journal, the organization released an updated position paper which explicitly addresses vegetarian diets (Journal of the American Dietetics Association, July 2009). The paper clearly articulates:

“It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life-cycle including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood and adolescence and for athletes.”

They continue endorsing the lifestyle, stating that vegetarian diets may aid in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and obesity. This outlines the official opinion of the American Dietetics Association.

I would just like to take a minute and say, “Woo-hoo for progress! Baby steps, baby!”

Bonzai!