I've been vegetarian for 11+ years, and never noticed any nutritional issues. I do think milk is important. There are meat substitudes like veggie burgars, veggie hotdog, and lot more, check boca and morning farm products available at walmart and other groccery stores. One thing for sure, one gets tempted to enjoy non veg products especially when you go out to eat; so you really need to be determined and discipline to stay vegetarian. Peace