Why are many people in south and eastern Asia vegetarian or vegan?

- Buddhism and Hinduism are two major religions in South and East Asia that emphasize nonviolence and compassion towards all living beings. Buddhist monks and nuns adhere to a vegetarian or even vegan diet, and many lay Buddhists and Hindus also adopt meat-free diets for ethical and spiritual reasons.

- Jainism is a religion originated in ancient India that practices non-violence (ahimsa) and emphasizes the sanctity of all life. Jains strictly adhere to a vegan diet, avoiding not only meat but also eggs, honey, and other animal-derived products.

Health and Environment

- The traditional diet in many South and East Asian cultures revolves around plant-based foods such as rice, lentils, vegetables, fruits, and spices. Meat and dairy consumption were often limited due to economic constraints, religious beliefs, and availability of resources.

- Plant-based diets have been associated with numerous health benefits, including lower risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

- Vegetarian and vegan diets often align with principles of sustainability, as they require fewer resources (such as land, water, and energy) compared to meat production.

Social and Economic Considerations

- In many rural and agrarian communities, livestock farming is not widespread, and meat was not a daily part of the diet.

- Meat can be more expensive than plant-based foods in some regions, making a vegetarian or vegan diet more affordable for low-income individuals and communities.

- Meat production can contribute to environmental degradation, so shifting towards plant-based diets can be seen as a way to promote sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint.

So it's a combination of religious beliefs, cultural influences, health awareness, environmental concerns, and economic factors that contribute to the high prevalence of vegetarianism and veganism in South and East Asian societies.