The word vegetarian is known into the English language since the 19th century. It comes from the Latin word vegetus meaning sprightly or lively. The Vegetarian Society was founded in 1874 and at that time had strong religious link.Slowly, it has grown until the last decade, which has seen a ever-increasing conversion to this diet.Many see it now as the principle dominant diet. The Netherlands has the highest ratios of vegetarians/ vegans in the population than any other country. Scientific research is now confirming that the vegetarian/vegan diet has many advantages to health as the ability to overcome common and even potentially serious diseases.