Updated April 28, 2014.

Definition: Strict vegetarian practice of excluding any type of animal product from the diet, including meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products.

People choose a vegan lifestyle for health benefits because a vegan diet is generally high in nutrients and fiber, and low in fat in calories. People may also choose a vegan lifestyle for ethical reasons and animal rights.

Vegans usually need vitamin B-12 supplements, because B-12 is only found in animal sources.

Also Known As: Strict Vegetarianism

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