Are vegetarians less healthy with lower quality of life than meat-eaters?

A new study has revealed that vegetarians are less healthy than meat-eaters and are more at risk of physical and mental illness, despite leading healthier lifestyles.

The study conducted by Austria's Medical University of Graz found that the vegetarian diet appeared to carry elevated risks of cancer, allergies and mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

According to the study, vegetarians consumed less alcohol and had lower body mass indexes, but were still in a poorer state of physical and mental health overall and those who ate less meat also showed a tendency to avoid attending doctors appointment for preventative measures such as vaccines.

The researchers said that their study has shown that Austrian adults who consume a vegetarian diet are less healthy, have a lower quality of life, and also require more medical treatment.