The Vegan Years: Ethical Commitment
From approximately 2013 to 2019, Miley Cyrus was a committed and vocal vegan, often citing her deep love for animals and ethical concerns about animal cruelty as her primary motivations. She publicly advocated for the lifestyle, even receiving recognition from animal rights organizations. Her social media was filled with posts celebrating her plant-based meals, and she cemented her commitment with two vegan-themed tattoos in 2017. This phase was a public and passionate endorsement of a plant-based diet, leading many fans to follow her example.
The Shift to Pescetarianism: A Health-Driven Decision
In September 2020, Cyrus revealed on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast that she was no longer following a strict vegan diet. Her decision was not a change of heart regarding animal welfare, but a difficult, health-driven choice. She explained that she had been experiencing a number of distressing symptoms, including "brain fog," intense joint pain, and feeling severely fatigued, describing it as "running on empty" during performances. This experience led her to believe she was malnourished, despite careful planning and the use of supplements.
Her return to animal products was a specific reintroduction of fish to her diet. This shift changed her dietary label from vegan to pescetarian, an eating pattern that includes fish but excludes all other meat and poultry.
The Role of Omega-3s in Cyrus's Dietary Change
Cyrus specifically cited the need for omega-3 fatty acids as a key reason for her dietary change. She stated that her brain was "not functioning properly" and credited the reintroduction of fish with making her feel "much sharper". While omega-3s are crucial for brain health, the way people obtain them can differ. For Cyrus, who felt she was not getting sufficient levels from supplements and plant sources, fish proved to be the necessary source.
The Nuances of Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids come in three primary forms: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
- Plant-based ALA: Found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, ALA is an essential fatty acid that the body can convert into EPA and DHA. However, this conversion process is often inefficient, and the amount produced can vary greatly between individuals.
- Fish-based EPA and DHA: Fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, are rich, direct sources of EPA and DHA, which are crucial for neurological health and inflammation control. Many pescetarians and omnivores find it simpler to meet their omega-3 needs by consuming fish directly.
- Algae-based EPA and DHA: Vegan sources like algae oil provide a direct source of EPA and DHA, bypassing the body's need for conversion. Many nutrition experts argue that a properly planned vegan diet with algae oil supplementation can provide sufficient omega-3s.
Vegan vs. Pescetarian Nutrition
Cyrus's journey highlights the key nutritional differences between vegan and pescetarian diets. While both can be healthy, each requires careful planning to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
Key Nutritional Comparison
| Nutrient | Vegan Diet Challenges | Pescetarian Diet Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | Requires supplementation or fortified foods; not naturally found in plant foods. | Readily available from fish and seafood. |
| Omega-3s (DHA/EPA) | ALA conversion is inefficient; requires specific supplements like algae oil. | Provides a direct and rich source from fatty fish. |
| Iron | Non-heme iron from plants is less bioavailable; requires higher intake and careful pairing with vitamin C. | Fish provides more easily absorbed heme iron. |
| Protein | Requires conscious effort to combine various plant sources to get all essential amino acids. | Fish is a complete protein source, and pairing with plant proteins is easy. |
A Case Study in Personalized Nutrition
Miley Cyrus's experience is a powerful case study in the importance of listening to one's body and the concept of personalized nutrition. What works for one person may not work for another, and health issues can prompt even the most committed individuals to re-evaluate their dietary choices. Despite the backlash from some members of the vegan community, Cyrus's decision was an intensely personal one, underscoring that dietary health is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Her story serves as a reminder that proper nutrient intake is paramount, regardless of the dietary path chosen. For individuals exploring plant-based options, consulting a nutritionist to ensure a balanced intake of all essential vitamins and minerals is always recommended.
Conclusion
While she spent several years as a vocal vegan advocate, Miley Cyrus has publicly confirmed that she reintroduced fish into her diet to address specific health concerns. The decision, difficult for her as an animal lover, was made to alleviate symptoms of brain fog and joint pain, which she attributed to omega-3 deficiencies. Her shift to a pescetarian diet highlights that even with good intentions, individual bodies can react differently to dietary restrictions. Her journey demonstrates a prioritization of personal health, reminding everyone that their own unique nutritional needs should guide their eating choices.
