Pescatarian: What is it? Pros, Cons, and What You Can Eat
A pescatarian is a individual that follows a diet that includes fish or other seafood, not meat. Pescatarians may choose to eat this way for health, environmental, or ethical reasons. Some people who identify as pescatarians also eat dairy and eggs.
The health benefits of a pescatarian diet
There are many potential health benefits connected with a pescatarian diet. Fish is a good source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. Seafood is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Additionally, pescatarians consume more fruits and vegetables than people who eat meat. This means they get more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Pescatarians also have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. They may also have a lesser risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
What you can eat on a pescatarian diet
Pescatarians can eat all types of seafood, including fish, shellfish, and squid. They can also eat eggs and dairy. Some pescatarian diets also include plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and tofu.
Regarding fruits and vegetables, pescatarians have a wide variety of options. They can eat all the same fruits and vegetables as vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, pescatarian diets often include starchy vegetables, such as potatoes, corn, and winter squash.
Pescatarians also have a variety of grains to choose from, including rice, quinoa, and oats.
Pros and cons of a pescatarian diet
There are many possible benefits associated with a pescatarian diet.
Pescatarians tend to have lower rates of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes than people who eat meat. This is likely because seafood is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Additionally, pescatarian diets are high in omega-3 fatty acids, linked to various health benefits.
Pescatarians also tend to consume more fruits and vegetables than people who eat meat. This means they get more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to a pescatarian diet.
Low-quality seafood can be contaminated with pollutants, such as PCBs and dioxins. These contaminants can build up in the body and potentially cause health problems.
This is why it's essential to get high-quality seafood such as OceanBox Seafood
Tips for starting a pescatarian diet
If you're interested in trying a pescatarian diet, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
1 - Make sure to include plenty of seafood, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. This will help you get the nutrients you need.
2 - Try out different seafood. We recommend our Ultimate Seafood Samper because it includes many kinds of fish you can try. If you are on a budget, try out the Best Value Seafood Box. It's a great way to get started
3 - If you're not used to eating fish, start a few times a week and gradually increase your intake.
4 - Some people find it helpful to plan their meals. This can make it easier to stick to a pescatarian diet. With our seafood subscription options, you can have your meals automatically delivered to you every week, or month.
2 - Try out different seafood. We recommend our Ultimate Seafood Samper because it includes many kinds of fish you can try. If you are on a budget, try out the Best Value Seafood Box. It's a great way to get started
3 - If you're not used to eating fish, start a few times a week and gradually increase your intake.
4 - Some people find it helpful to plan their meals. This can make it easier to stick to a pescatarian diet. With our seafood subscription options, you can have your meals automatically delivered to you every week, or month.
Lastly, remember that there is no "correct" way to eat pescatarian. Listen to your body and eat what feels best for you.
Popular Recipes for a delicious pescatarian meal
- Vegetable stir-fry with shrimp
- Shrimp scampi
- Fish tacos
- Vegetable soup with fish
- Grilled salmon
- Seafood pasta
- Quinoa vegetable pilaf with fish
With so many countless choices, it's easy to see why a pescatarian diet is becoming increasingly popular.
Conclusion
A pescatarian diet has many potential benefits, including lower heart disease and obesity rates. It's also a great way to get more seafood, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. If you're interested in trying a pescatarian diet, we hope these tips and recipes will help you get started. Thanks for reading!