05:45 PM CDT on Wednesday, July 19, 2006

By Mike Zientek / 11 News

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Polls show more Americans are saying, "no" to meat, fish or chicken.

The vegetarian trend is washing over the country.

Lunchtime is a busy time in the Baba Yega restaurant's kitchen.

While chicken lovers can get their fix, the cooks chop up a lot of veggies too.

When waitress Rachel Smith isn't serving customers, she's eating veggie platters.

Smith converted to the lifestyle two years ago, inspired by her brother and sister.

"I have a ton more energy," she said. "It's actually really amazing. It's not just your body -- it's like your soul, everything about you just glows."

Smith is part of a growing trend. Recent polls show nearly 3 percent of Americans consider themselves vegetarian, up 1 percent from a year ago.

At Baba Yega, more than 10 vegetarian items are on the menu.

"Because it's what people want; people want a selection," owner Dawn Rapp said. "We have so many repeat customers that come in three or four times a week and if they're vegetarian, they can always get a different item."

Restaurants aren't the only place where the vegetarian lifestyle is having an effect.

A section of Whole Foods Market could be called "veggie heaven."

It's full of fruits, vegetables, soy products and other alternatives.

"With the more increase in demand and need, Whole Foods Market is willing to take the lead and have more offerings," spokeswoman Candyce Speidel said.

At Baba Yega, they understand completely.