Miley Cyrus's Health Concerns and Shift from Veganism
For many years, Miley Cyrus was a vocal and visible proponent of the vegan lifestyle, adopting it around 2013 after the death of her dog. However, during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast in 2020, she disclosed that she was no longer a vegan and had begun eating fish. This was a surprising revelation for many fans who had followed her journey and were inspired by her commitment to animal welfare.
Cyrus explained that her decision was driven by significant health issues she was experiencing. She specifically mentioned that her brain "wasn't functioning properly" and that she felt "pretty malnourished" and "running on empty". She noted that the reintroduction of fish and omegas into her diet was a direct response to these symptoms, claiming she felt "so much sharper" afterward. This experience highlights the personal and complex relationship between nutrition and individual health.
The Brain and Body Connection
Cyrus's main concern centered on her cognitive function, or lack thereof. She attributed what she described as "brain fog" to her diet, leading her to seek out omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in fish. She also reported dealing with intense hip pain, suggesting a more systemic issue related to her nutritional intake. The move to a pescatarian diet—a vegetarian diet that includes fish—was her solution to what she perceived as a dietary deficit.
The Role of Omega-3s and Malnutrition
The singer's experience, while personal, sparked a broader debate within the nutrition and vegan communities. Critics pointed out that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA and DHA, the long-chain versions found in fish) can be obtained from plant-based sources. The primary source of these fatty acids in fish is algae, which can be taken as a supplement by vegans. Other plant-based sources of ALA (which the body can convert to EPA and DHA) include:
- Flaxseeds: Often used ground or as oil.
- Chia seeds: Can be added to smoothies or used as an egg replacer.
- Walnuts: A popular snack and ingredient in salads.
- Hemp seeds: Another versatile seed rich in omega-3s.
- Seaweed and Algae: Direct, high-quality sources of EPA and DHA.
Some nutritionists and commentators suggested that Cyrus may have been following a poorly planned vegan diet, relying on junk food or improperly supplementing, rather than the diet itself being inherently flawed. Factors like inadequate calorie intake, stress, and sleep could also have contributed to her symptoms.
Vegan vs. Pescatarian: A Comparison
To better understand the dietary shifts Miley Cyrus made, it's helpful to compare the two lifestyles. This table highlights key differences in nutritional considerations, ethics, and potential health impacts.
| Feature | Vegan Diet | Pescatarian Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Sources | Beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, quinoa | All vegan sources, plus fish and other seafood |
| Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) | Primarily from algae-based supplements or conversion from ALA sources like flax and chia | Directly from fatty fish like salmon and mackerel |
| Iron Sources | Fortified cereals, beans, lentils, dark leafy greens (requires careful planning for optimal absorption) | All vegan sources, plus fish and seafood |
| Vitamin B12 | Requires supplementation or fortified foods; not naturally available in plant-based sources | Can be obtained from fish and other animal products |
| Ethical Stance | Typically motivated by strong ethical convictions against all animal exploitation | Avoids land animals, but permits the consumption of fish, leading to an ethical gray area for many |
| Potential Health Risks | Risk of nutrient deficiencies if not well-planned (e.g., B12, iron, zinc, omega-3s) | Potential exposure to mercury, microplastics, and other pollutants depending on fish source and quantity |
The Emotional Aspect and Animal Welfare
Despite her decision to reintroduce fish, Cyrus was very transparent about the emotional difficulty of the choice. She recounted crying while eating the first piece of fish cooked for her by her ex-husband, Liam Hemsworth. She also strongly emphasized that her love for animals remained, pointing to her many pets and continuing her animal welfare efforts. Her admission highlights the moral and emotional complexities that many face when their personal health needs come into conflict with their ethical beliefs.
The Broader Context of Celebrity Diets
Miley Cyrus is not the only celebrity to quit veganism. Her ex-husband, Liam Hemsworth, also abandoned his vegan diet after nearly four years due to health issues, including kidney stones, potentially linked to high oxalate intake from his heavy plant food consumption. Other celebrities, like Anne Hathaway, have also spoken about returning to animal products after feeling unhealthy on a vegan diet. These high-profile cases illustrate that while veganism is a sustainable and healthy option for many, it is not a universally perfect fit. Individual bodies, genetics, and health needs play a significant role in determining the ideal diet.
Conclusion: Personal Health and Dietary Choices
In conclusion, why did Miley Cyrus quit vegan is a question with a clear, health-centric answer. After six years on a strict vegan diet, she experienced symptoms like brain fog, joint pain, and feelings of malnourishment. Her solution was to reintroduce fish, a source of omega-3s, and she reported a significant improvement in her mental and physical well-being. While a well-planned vegan diet can provide all necessary nutrients, Cyrus's experience underscores the importance of nutritional vigilance and the fact that what works for one person may not work for another. Her story serves as a reminder that personal health must always be the top priority in any dietary decision, even when balancing it with ethical considerations.
For more detailed nutritional guidance on plant-based and other diets, consulting a registered dietitian is always recommended. For information on alternative omega-3 sources, you can explore resources like VegNews.
