Model Answer - IELTS (Task 2)

Some people choose to eat no meat or fish. They believe that this is not only better for their own health but also benefits the world as a whole.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion.

People often choose their diet according to their preferences, religion (e.g. Buddhists opt for vegetarianism) or moral beliefs (e.g. supporters of animal rights refrain from eating animals).

As long as a person has a balanced diet, being a vegetarian is beneficial for their health. Many diseases are linked to eating meat and it also takes a longer time to digest. Fruit and vegetables, particularly in their raw form are rich in fibers and vitamins. They also have a high water content which benefits the skin. A diet consisting of vegetables makes a person better equipped to fend off viruses and provides them with natural energy throughout the day.

On a global scale the consumption of meat by humans often affects the eco-system of the animal kingdom. In Japan for example where the population favours eating whale meat, these magnificent animals are becoming extinct. Similarly sharks suit the Chinese market and seals are eaten in Alaska. Plenty of meat is now mass-produced in factories which angers animal rights activists who see this as inhumane.

On the other hand we should not dismiss the value of eating meat. Meat provides our body with proteins and fish has its own nutritional value. Our teeth are designed to rip meat apart and our digestive system is able to digest meat. Let us not forget that mankind has been eating meat for millions of years.

In my opinion if someone is a vegetarian their lifestyle is healthy due to the vitamins, energy and positive contribution it makes to health. Eating no meat or fish means that animals will not be bred or killed for food. However everyone should be able to choose what they eat and not forget that our body is designed for meat consumption.

Question taken from Cambridge IELTS Trainer p. 171

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