Tag: Religious beliefs

Many devotees observing the sacred Somwar fast wonder about the food items permitted, and a common question is: can we eat coconut in Somwar fast? Yes, coconut and its various forms are generally considered pure and acceptable during this spiritual observance, according to traditional fasting guidelines.

According to a Pew Research Center study, two-thirds of Jains in India abstain from root vegetables like onions and potatoes, but dietary practices regarding leafy greens like palak are more nuanced and depend on seasonal and spiritual factors. The answer lies in the profound commitment to *ahimsa*, or non-violence.

While many vegetarians do eat eggs, a significant portion of the vegetarian population, especially in regions like India, abstains from them due to cultural, ethical, and religious reasons. The decision often depends on an individual's specific ethical stance or the particular type of vegetarianism they follow, highlighting the nuanced nature of this dietary lifestyle.

According to a 2025 report from the Cleveland Clinic, while rare, allergic reactions to garlic are possible, although intolerance is far more common. There are multiple reasons, both health-related and philosophical, that explain why someone might not be able to eat garlic and onions.

According to a 2021 Pew Research Center study, eight in ten Indians limit meat in their diets, with many Hindus citing religious reasons for avoiding beef specifically. The primary religious group that explicitly forbids its followers from consuming beef is Hinduism, though other faiths also observe vegetarianism based on their own principles.

According to a 2010 study, 83% of the global population is religiously affiliated, and many of these faiths have specific guidelines regarding food and drink. These powerful influences reveal how diverse cultural and religious factors can cause some to not or be unable to eat and drink, shaping individual diets and community practices around the world.

While India is one of the world's largest egg producers, a significant portion of its diverse population adheres to vegetarian diets that exclude eggs. This nuanced reality leads many to question, "Why don't Indians eat eggs?"

While surveys show a vast majority of Hindus consider cow slaughter unacceptable, the question of whether eating pork is against Hinduism is far more complex and varied across communities and traditions. Unlike beef, which is widely revered and avoided, the position on pork is nuanced, with no single, universal rule governing its consumption.

It is estimated that up to 40% of India's population follows some form of vegetarian diet, representing the world's largest vegetarian population. But what is a Hindu vegetarian, and what principles—like the concept of *ahimsa*—guide this ancient practice of mindful eating rooted in spiritual beliefs?

According to one report, only about half of Seventh-day Adventists eat meat, while a significant portion of the global community follows a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. This diverse practice often causes confusion for those unfamiliar with the church's health message, which strongly encourages a plant-based diet but does not mandate it as a condition for membership.