Choosing a vegetarian lifestyle is more than a diet, it’s a conscious step toward balanced living, better health, and a deeper connection with food. In nutritional science, “vegetarian” can refer to several plant-based eating styles, ranging from lacto-ovo-vegetarian to 100% vegan. While everyday language often uses vegetarian to mean lacto-ovo-vegetarian, the broader scientific meaning includes all plant-focused diets.
At Cortisana, we believe in honoring nature, eating whole foods, and celebrating Italian tradition through mindful, plant-forward meals. Let’s explore the main types of vegetarian diets, their benefits, and how to embrace them with Italian taste.
What Does “Vegetarian” Mean?
Vegetarian diets emphasize plant-based foods such as whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruit, nuts, and seeds. Variations differ in whether eggs or dairy are included, but all focus on natural, minimally processed ingredients.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, well-planned vegetarian diets can support all stages of life and promote long-term health.
Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian (LOV)
Includes: dairy + eggs
Excludes: meat, fish, poultry, shellfish
A balanced LOV diet highlights vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and fruit. Occasional eggs and dairy can be included, although consuming plant-based calcium and protein sources may offer even greater long-term benefits.
Health Benefits
Removing meat increases intake of protective nutrients and reduces saturated fats and cholesterol — lowering risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers.
External reference: Harvard School of Public Health
Tip: Choose fiber-rich foods and high-quality olive oil to support digestion and heart health.
Try Cortisana's artisanal olives to enrich your meals.
Lacto-Vegetarian (LV)
Includes: dairy
Excludes: meat, fish, eggs
This option reduces cholesterol intake further by excluding eggs. Dairy should be consumed in moderation; plant-based calcium sources like leafy greens and nuts can be equally nourishing and easier to digest for many.
Pair steamed vegetables with Tuscan olive oil to support nutrient absorption.
Vegan (100% Plant-Based)
Includes: whole plant foods only
Excludes: all animal products, including dairy, eggs, honey
A vegan diet maximizes plant nutrients — antioxidants, fiber, healthy fats — and minimizes inflammatory components. It also supports environmental sustainability and aligns with mindful living practices.
To thrive, variety is key: mix grains, legumes, seasonal vegetables, fruit, seeds, and high-quality oils.
Italian vegan tip: drizzle vegetables with EVOO + sea salt for pure Mediterranean taste.
Try our Black Truffle Slices for an elevated plant-based dish:
https://cortisana.com/products/slices-of-truffle-in-extra-virgin-olive-oil
Embrace Italian-Inspired Plant-Based Living
From hearty legumes to seasonal produce, Italy’s culinary tradition offers endless vegetarian inspiration. Whether you enjoy a LOV, LV, or vegan approach, choosing natural, seasonal ingredients supports both health and flavor.
At Cortisana, we celebrate plant-powered wellness: naturally, beautifully, and without compromise.
Try This At Home
Explore our curated selection of Italian plant-based essentials:
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