Pescetarianism is the practice of only eating fish or seafood instead of meat, usually for ethical or environmental reasons. Approximately 3% of adults worldwide identify as pescetarian, and it is an increasingly popular trend.
There are so many reasons to adopt a pescetarian diet, on the grounds of health, ethics, and cost. If you’re still feeling skeptical, here are five reasons to reconsider.
You are saving the environment
The meat industry is responsible for 60% of all greenhouse gas emissions from food production. By regularly consuming steak, pork, and chicken, you are contributing in some way to the rapid acceleration of global warming. Although the fishing industry does still have a large environmental impact, it is significantly lower, and you can reduce your own carbon footprint by only eating those animals that live beneath the water.
It is healthier
Eating too much meat can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, and other ailments like strokes, arthritis and high blood pressure. Fish, on the other hand, is a much healthier option as it contains plenty of nutrients like omega-3 and iron. It is also relatively low in saturated fat. In many ways, a pescetarian diet is even healthier than a vegetarian one, because it is much easier to get the protein you need to sustain yourself.
You will save money
People who base their diet around meat end up spending a lot more money on their weekly shop since it is so expensive. By cutting meat out from your diet you could save yourself a great deal each year. Of course, fish can be pricey, but being pescetarian doesn’t mean you have to eat fish at every meal. Just adding more vegetables is a great way to lighten your financial worries and have more money left at the end of the month to enjoy yourself.
Fight animal cruelty
There is so much animal cruelty inherent in the food industry. We’ve all seen videos of chickens cooped up in tiny battery farms and the inhumane treatment of cattle in slaughterhouses. Animals are often forcibly taken from their mothers, injected with steroids, and mutilated to produce meat for mass consumption.
By opting for a meat-free diet, you are showing the world that you’re taking a stand against animal cruelty and will fight for the rights of living creatures. Of course, the fishing industry is not perfect, and there is certainly room for improvement, but aquatic creatures are not farmed in the same way so there is less of an ethical dilemma.
Fish is delicious
If all the reasons listed above haven’t convinced you, then what about the simple fact that fish is absolutely delicious? There are so many different types of fish, each with its own unique flavor and texture. With a little online research you can find some amazing fish-based recipes that are healthy, affordable, and tasty. Try this amazing cedar plank salmon for something a little different.
Hopefully these five points have persuaded you that pescetarianism is the way to go. If so, enjoy your new healthy, delicious lifestyle!
