18th September 2000

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When we were kids, our parents repeatedly encouraged us to eat our fruits and vegetables. And they were right!

It’s well known that long-term regular consumption of fruits and vegetables as part of our diet has been associated with many health benefits.

Therefore, as vegetarians and vegans consume more vegetables than the general population of omnivores, following a vegetarian or a vegan diet may provide added health benefits.

But although there are many theories, the precise reasons for the beneficial effects of a vegetarian diet are not known.

That’s why a group within the Northern Ireland Centre for Diet and Health (NICHE) based in the University of Ulster is starting a large study of vegetarians and vegans in Northern Ireland.

Co-ordinated by University of Ulster researcher Sumanto Haldar, the University is seeking volunteers to take part in this important and unique study. They are particularly looking for vegetarians and vegans for the last three years.

Researcher Sumanto Haldar said: “…scientific research has shown that people on long term vegetarian diets have a reduced incidence of certain diseases including cancer and heart disease”.

“Fruit and vegetables provide important nutrients and other factors to the body which help to maintain good health and combat disease. These nutrients include many anti-oxidants such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which collectively prevent damage to the cells in the body.”

The research team will particularly investigate whether there are differences in the levels of anti-oxidants and in the degree of cell damage between people who consume vegetarian, vegan or omnivorous diets.

Participants in the study will be asked to provide information about what they usually eat in a normal week, and will also be asked to provide a small blood sample. Both male and female participants, ideally non-smokers, between the age of 18 and 64 years will be very welcome.

Anyone interested to take part in this project should contact the School of Biomedical Sciences Office on 0287032 4627 or e-mail s.haldar@ulst.ac.uk.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk