What does it mean to be a pescatarian?

Are pescatarians the same as vegetarians? While the terms may seem similar, they differ in terms of the foods included in the diet. Pescatarians share many dietary habits with vegetarians, like consuming fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, eggs, and dairy, but they also incorporate fish and seafood. Explore the distinctions between these two lifestyles to determine which one fits you best.

What is a Pescatarian?

A pescatarian (sometimes spelled "pescetarian") is someone who avoids all forms of meat except for fish and seafood. This diet is essentially a vegetarian lifestyle with the inclusion of fish, shrimp, crab, clams, and lobster.

A pescatarian diet excludes meats such as beef, chicken, and pork, focusing instead on seafood and plant-based foods like beans, grains, tofu, fruits, vegetables, and dairy.

The pescatarian diet is recognized as a healthy lifestyle due to its combination of vegetarian principles with protein-rich foods and healthy fats from beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

This diet emphasizes plant-based foods, fish, and seafood, with fish serving as an excellent source of protein. It's low in saturated fat and rich in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

Are Pescatarians Also Considered Vegetarian?

A pescatarian is not classified as a vegetarian. The key difference lies in the fact that a vegetarian diet excludes all animal products, whereas pescatarians include fish and seafood.

Both vegetarian and pescatarian diets are healthy options when followed correctly. A pescatarian diet combines the advantages of plant-based eating with the added nutritional value of fish.

Why Choose a Pescatarian Lifestyle?

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon and mackerel help prevent plaque buildup in arteries and reduce the risk of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). These essential fats can also lower triglyceride levels and promote overall heart health.

Some people adopt a pescatarian diet as a balanced alternative to strict vegetarianism, enjoying the flexibility of both plant-based and fish-based meals. Additionally, pescatarians often find dining out to be more convenient due to wider menu options.