Miley Cyrus's vegan journey
From 2013 to 2019, Miley Cyrus was a prominent and outspoken advocate for veganism. Her transition to a plant-based lifestyle was reportedly influenced by the death of her dog, Floyd, and her observation of the intelligence of a pet blowfish. During this period, she was a fierce proponent of animal rights and her commitment to the lifestyle extended beyond her diet to her fashion choices. Her public support for veganism earned her the Celebrity Advocate Award at the Animal Rights National Conference. She even had tattoos representing her beliefs, including a sunflower for the Vegan Society and the words “be kind”. However, this steadfast dedication to a strict vegan diet would eventually be re-evaluated based on personal health concerns.
The shift to pescatarianism
In a 2020 appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Cyrus revealed that she had quit her vegan diet the previous year. She explained that after years on the diet, she began experiencing significant health issues, including:
- Chronic joint pain, particularly in her hips.
- Persistent "brain fog" and feeling mentally lethargic.
- Overall malnourishment and low energy levels, running on "pretty much empty" during performances.
Cyrus claimed that introducing fish into her diet to increase her intake of omega-3s resulted in immediate and noticeable improvements to her cognitive function. She described her brain feeling "much sharper" and believed that the specific proteins and fats from fish provided benefits that large quantities of plant-based alternatives could not replicate for her. Her decision was not made lightly, as she revealed she cried when eating fish for the first time in years, a testament to her ongoing love for animals. She has since settled into a pescatarian lifestyle, which excludes all other animal meats and dairy.
The vegan community's reaction
Cyrus's public comments sparked a debate within the vegan community and among nutrition experts. Many critics argued that her health problems were likely the result of a poorly planned vegan diet rather than the diet itself. Experts point out that a balanced vegan diet, often supplemented with key nutrients like vitamin B12 and potentially omega-3s, can be entirely adequate for health. High-quality, plant-based omega-3s are readily available from sources such as:
- Algae oil supplements
- Flaxseeds
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
The controversy underscores the fact that dietary needs are highly individual and that no single eating plan is a guaranteed fit for everyone. While the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes that appropriately planned vegan diets are healthy and nutritionally adequate, this does not eliminate the need for proper planning or an individual's unique biological needs.
Comparison: Veganism vs. Pescatarianism
| Feature | Strict Vegan Diet | Pescatarian Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Products | No meat, poultry, fish, dairy, or eggs. | Includes fish and seafood; excludes all other meat and poultry. |
| Omega-3s | Derived from plant sources like algae, seeds, and nuts. | Abundant in fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel. |
| Protein Sources | Beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, and seeds provide complete protein. | High-quality protein from fish, eggs, dairy (if included), and plant sources. |
| Primary Motivation | Ethical concerns for animals, environment, or health. | Health benefits, while potentially still considering animal welfare and environmental impact. |
| B12 Needs | Requires supplementation or fortified foods, as it's not naturally present in plants. | Can be sourced naturally from fish, supplemented by other food sources. |
| Nutrient Density | Can be highly nutrient-dense if well-planned; risk of deficiencies if not. | Can be high in essential nutrients; potential mercury risk with certain fish. |
The personal nature of nutritional choices
Miley Cyrus's story is a powerful reminder that nutritional journeys are not always linear and are deeply personal. While she was a devoted vegan for many years, her ultimate decision to change her diet came down to what she believed was best for her own health and well-being. Her openness about this shift sparked a crucial conversation about the importance of listening to one's body and ensuring adequate nutrient intake, regardless of dietary label. For those considering a major dietary change, consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is always recommended to ensure all nutritional needs are met and potential deficiencies are avoided. Ultimately, Cyrus's experience highlights the complexity of nutrition and the fact that an approach that works for one person may not be the right fit for another.
Conclusion
While she was a prominent vegan for six years, Miley Cyrus is no longer a vegan and has been pescatarian since 2019, incorporating fish into her diet for health reasons. Her departure was prompted by experiences with brain fog and joint pain, which she believes were alleviated by reintroducing fish-based omega-3s. Her journey serves as an important case study highlighting that while veganism can be a healthy and ethically motivated choice, individual nutritional needs can vary significantly. It reinforces the need for meticulous planning, potential supplementation, and professional guidance to maintain optimal health on any restrictive diet. The broader takeaway is the importance of a balanced, mindful approach to nutrition that prioritizes personal well-being above all else. For a more detailed look at the health implications of various diets, you can consult reliable resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
