Why Harry Styles Chooses a Pescatarian Diet: Exploring The Benefits Of Nutrition And Sustainability

singer Harry Styles is one of the most beloved artists all around the globe. During one of his interviews, the former One Direction singer revealed that he is a pescatarian. This type of diet primarily consists of fish and seafood while excluding meat from land animals. This diet is considered healthier as compared to many other diets as it includes more fibre and heart-healthy fats. “My body definitely feels better for it,” he said, crediting his new diet regime. 

While many people might think that a pescatarian diet is similar to veganism, there is a notable difference between the two diets. 

What Is The Pescatarian Diet? How Is It Different From Veganism?

The pescatarian diet is a dietary approach that combines a vegetarian diet with the inclusion of fish and seafood. This means that people following the diet do not eat meat from land animals, such as beef, chicken, or pork. However, they do consume fish and other seafood like shrimp, clams, and crabs.  

On the other hand, veganism does not contain any products from animals. It excludes all animal-derived products, which means no meat, fish, poultry, dairy, eggs, or even honey. People following the vegan diet focus solely on plant-based foods, unlike pescatarian who can have fish or seafood. 

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Expert’s Reaction To The Pescatarian Diet

According to Luna Jaiswal, Dietitian and Founder of Addlife By LunaJaiswal, availability of sources can be a major factor in the pescatarian diet considering the region. “For instance, some river fish, like those from the Gomti river in Lucknow, may contain harmful heavy metals such as lead. Eating these fish frequently can lead to health issues, so it’s best to limit their consumption to no more than twice a week.”

Detailing more about the harmful effects of the lead found in river water, Dr Jaiwal added, “This can cause serious health problems, including kidney damage, brain issues, and heart problems. Heavy metals also weaken the immune system and can affect growth and development, especially in children. That’s why it’s important to limit eating such fish to twice a week to avoid these risks.”

To make any diet work well, including a pescetarian diet (which includes fish but not meat), it’s important to tailor it to your own body, lifestyle, and the foods that are available in your area. This means paying attention to how your body reacts to different foods and choosing options that fit your daily routine.

What Got Harry Styles Falling For The Pescatarian Diet?

“I don’t eat meat.”

Harry Styles paused his recent performance at Madison Square Garden in New York City after a fan threw chicken nuggets onstage to get his attention. pic.twitter.com/U6jWW3IcJM — USA TODAY (@USATODAY) August 31, 2022

In an interview with Vogue, Harry Styles revealed that his choice to become a pescatarian came after the vegan meals prepared by his bandmates during tours. He noted that these experiences led him to explore healthier eating options, which he found beneficial for his well-being. 

Harry Styles wearing a fish hat during As It Was! pic.twitter.com/eABcH5eCLl — Harry and Niall News! (@HarryNiallNews) July 7, 2022

In August 2022, during a concert in New York City, the audience asked him to eat a chicken nugget that someone threw onto the stage. He said, “I don’t eat chicken. Sorry, I don’t eat meat,” and threw the nugget back into the crowd. 

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What Are the Benefits Of a Pescatarian Diet?

Watch @Harry_Styles‘ new video “Adore You” where he declares his love for a… fish 🐟 And there’s a special guest narrating! Can you guess who?
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▶️ pic.twitter.com/XFByLTSh6l — Vevo (@Vevo) December 7, 2019

The pescatarian diet offers several health benefits due to its focus on fish, seafood, and plant-based foods. Compared to omnivores, pesco-vegetarians or people on a pescatarian diet consume less saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Below are its benefits. 

Heart Health

• One of the most significant benefits of a pescatarian diet is its positive impact on heart health. 

• Fish like salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease triglyceride levels. 

• Regular consumption of these healthy fats is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke

Nutrient Density

• The pescatarian diet is nutrient-dense, providing high-quality protein along with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc. 

• These nutrients play a vital role in maintaining overall health and preventing deficiencies. 

• The inclusion of a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds further enhance its nutritional profile.

Weight Management

• Foods included in this diet are generally lower in calories and saturated fats 

• The high protein content from fish helps promote satiety, making it easier to control portion sizes and reduce overall calorie intake. 

Improved Skin Health

• The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish also support skin health by maintaining moisture and elasticity. 

• Adequate intake of these fats can help prevent dryness and improve overall skin appearance

Sustainability 

• In addition to health benefits, Styles’ dietary choice aligns with growing concerns about environmental sustainability. 

• The pescatarian diet is often viewed as more sustainable than meat-heavy diets. 

• It generally results in lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced resource consumption.

Takeaway

Harry Styles’ choice to follow a pescatarian diet highlights his commitment to health and sustainability. The pescatarian diet offers myriad  health benefits, including enhanced heart health, nutrient density, and effective weight management. Inspired by the vegan meals prepared by his bandmates during tours, the singer exemplifies how dietary choices can positively impact both personal health and the planet. However, before you decide to follow any specific diet, it is a must to consult a specialist/expert to understand the basics of the diet for maximum health benefits.