The term vegetarianism is used loosely with many athletes from those who just do not eat red meat to those who do not eat any animal products at all. Here are some of the more common categories of vegetarian diets:

Lacto-vegetarian: no animal foods at all but includes milk and milk products (yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese)

Lacto-ovo-vegetarian: no animal foods at all but includes eggs, milk and milk products.

Vegan: no animal foods at all.

I have met some athletes who fall into a couple of the different categories and those who also eat fish but no other meats. It doesn’t really matter what type is followed or for what reasons. What is important is how this can affect your health and performance.