The Health Problems Leading to Her Decision
After adhering to a strict vegan diet for several years, Miley Cyrus reported experiencing debilitating health issues, including 'brain fog,' severe hip joint pain, and feeling 'malnourished'. She described a specific instance during a performance where she felt she was "running on empty".
Similarly, her ex-husband, Liam Hemsworth, also stopped following a vegan diet after experiencing lethargy and developing a kidney stone. These accounts highlight that, if not carefully managed, any dietary approach can lead to health challenges for some individuals.
The Controversial Shift to Pescatarianism
Due to her health concerns, Cyrus decided to reintroduce animal products. She described her first non-vegan meal, grilled fish prepared by Hemsworth, as an emotional experience, saying she "cried for the fish". Despite this, she noted a rapid improvement in her mental clarity and energy levels after the change. She now identifies as a pescatarian, including fish in her diet while avoiding other meats.
The Omega-3 Debate: Fish vs. Plant-Based Sources
Cyrus specifically cited a perceived deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids as a key factor impacting her cognitive function. Fish contain long-chain EPA and DHA omega-3s, but vegans can obtain these through sources like algae-based supplements. Other plant sources such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts provide ALA omega-3s. Some critics suggested her vegan diet may have been poorly planned and that she could have consulted dietitians about supplementation. Some health professionals also suggested her quick improvement after eating fish might have been a placebo effect. Fatigue and brain fog can stem from various causes beyond diet, including stress or lack of sleep.
The Vegan vs. Pescetarian Diet: A Comparison
While a well-planned vegan diet is recognized as nutritionally sound by major health organizations, individual needs vary. Here's a look at how veganism and pescetarianism relate to Cyrus's experience:
| Feature | Vegan Diet (as per Cyrus's experience) | Pescetarian Diet (as per Cyrus's experience) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Levels | Felt lethargic. | Reported more energy. |
| Brain Function | Cited 'brain fog'. | Experienced improved clarity. |
| Primary Omega-3 Source | Potential reliance on less efficient ALA conversion. | Direct consumption of EPA/DHA from fish. |
| Commitment to Animal Welfare | High commitment. | Made a health-based exception. |
| Diet Planning Difficulty | Experienced imbalances, possibly due to planning. | Potentially easier management. |
Conclusion: The Personal Nature of Nutrition
Miley Cyrus's decision to stop being vegan underscores the importance of individual nutrition and listening to one's body. Her experience highlights the need for proper planning and consultation with professionals to meet dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Miley Cyrus initially become vegan?
Miley Cyrus initially adopted veganism for ethical reasons and her love for animals.
Did Miley Cyrus try supplements before quitting veganism?
While she mentioned taking supplements, it's unclear if she used algae-based omega-3s.
What does Miley Cyrus eat now?
She follows a pescetarian diet, including fish but no other meat.
Is it true that you can't get omega-3s on a vegan diet?
No, vegans can get omega-3s from plant sources like flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, and algae supplements.
What are common signs of omega-3 deficiency?
Signs can include dry skin, joint pain, fatigue, and mood swings.
Did the backlash from the vegan community affect her?
Cyrus was aware of potential backlash but emphasized her continued love for animals through actions like adopting pets.
Could something else have caused her health problems?
Experts suggest stress, lack of sleep, or a poorly planned diet could cause her symptoms.
