The number of vegetarians in Germany is increasing annually, but little research has been done on how these individuals differ from others from a psychological perspective. Recent studies shed light on this topic, revealing that vegetarians are often intelligent and sensitive, but also frequently feel excluded. While the health benefits of a vegetarian diet have been well-established, the psychological and cultural components of vegetarianism are still largely unexplored.
According to the European Vegetarian Union, around nine percent of Germans are vegetarians, with nearly two-thirds of women and 40 percent of men identifying as “part-time vegetarians.” Vegetarianism is often associated with a left-liberal political stance in the United States, while meat-eaters tend to be more hierarchical and authoritarian. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that children with higher IQs are more likely to become vegetarians as adults.
The first study on the psychological aspects of vegetarianism was conducted in Germany and published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. It found that vegetarians are often young, female, single, and have a higher level of education. However, vegetarians also have a higher likelihood of suffering from anxiety and depression, which may be related to their lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
While the results of these studies provide some insight into the psychological aspects of vegetarianism, they also raise new questions. Could a vegetarian diet lead to mental health issues? Further research is needed to determine the exact relationship between vegetarianism and psychological disorders, as well as the motivations behind individuals’ dietary choices.
In conclusion, while the health benefits of a vegetarian diet are well-established, the psychological and cultural components of vegetarianism are still largely unexplored. Vegetarians are often intelligent and sensitive, but also frequently feel excluded. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between vegetarianism and mental health, as well as the motivations behind individuals’ dietary choices.
