ovovegetarian

An ovovegetarian is a person who follows an ovo-vegetarian diet, a form of vegetarianism that excludes meat, poultry, and fish but includes eggs. Unlike lacto-vegetarians and ovo-lacto vegetarians, an ovovegetarian does not consume dairy products.

The typical ovovegetarian diet centers on plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, plus eggs. Eggs provide high-quality protein and micronutrients such as vitamin B12, riboflavin, choline, and selenium. Since dairy is avoided, calcium and vitamin D may be limited unless the individual uses fortified foods or supplements.

People choose ovo-vegetarianism for various reasons, including ethics regarding animals, environmental concerns, cost, or personal health preferences. The diet is practiced in many parts of the world and can be compatible with various cultural cuisines.

Nutrition and health considerations: well-planned ovovegetarian diets can meet daily nutrient needs, but attention should be paid to protein balance, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 intake. Eggs mitigate some deficiencies, but individuals should consider iodine and zinc as well. For some people, dietary cholesterol in eggs is a consideration, though recent evidence suggests it has a smaller impact on heart disease risk than previously thought.

Related terms include ovo-lacto vegetarian, which allows both eggs and dairy, and lacto-vegetarian, which allows dairy but not eggs.