Here's a breakdown:
* Vegetarianism: Some Buddhists follow a vegetarian diet, abstaining from eating meat, but may still consume fish and eggs.
* Veganism: A smaller number of Buddhists follow a vegan diet, avoiding all animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
* Non-Vegetarian: Many Buddhists do eat meat and fish, following the teachings of their specific school of Buddhism and their personal beliefs.
What influences a Buddhist's diet?
* School of Buddhism: Different schools of Buddhism have different interpretations and practices. Some emphasize vegetarianism, while others are more flexible.
* Personal Beliefs: Individual Buddhists may choose to follow a specific diet based on their own ethical, religious, or health beliefs.
* Cultural Influences: Dietary practices can also be influenced by local customs and traditions.
Instead of focusing on what Buddhists "don't" eat, it's more accurate to say that Buddhist diets are influenced by:
* The principle of non-harming: Buddhists generally aim to minimize harm to living beings, and this can influence their dietary choices.
* The concept of karma: The belief in karma encourages ethical behavior, including mindful eating and avoiding unnecessary suffering.
Common Foods in Buddhist Diets:
* Fruits: Apples, bananas, mangoes, oranges, etc.
* Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, etc.
* Grains: Rice, noodles, bread, etc.
* Legumes: Lentils, beans, chickpeas, etc.
* Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, etc.
* Tofu and Tempeh: Soy-based protein sources.
It's important to remember that there's no single "Buddhist diet." Dietary choices vary greatly among Buddhists, reflecting their personal beliefs, cultural background, and interpretation of the teachings.