Pescatarian Pros
- Seafood is nutrient-dense - Seafood are nutrient-dense protein sources, and often offer a range of valuable nutrients that might be missing or in lesser amounts in meat and poultry options.
- Environmental benefits - Reducing meat consumption and adopting a pescatarian lifestyle may be of environmental benefit if choosing sustainably sourced seafood options.
- Maintainable dietary choices - A pescatarian diet is less restrictive than a vegetarian or vegan diet. This type of dietary change is sustainable long-term.
- Lots of choices when eating out - There are many options available within restaurants, cafes and delivery services. Those following a pescatarian diet can also trust vegetarian or vegan food options when looking for meals.
Pescatarian Cons
- Planning meals - Eliminating or limiting food groups may require planning especially when organising food prep or meals for the week ahead.
- Can result in nutritional deficiencies - Removing meat from your diet can create health issues such as nutrient deficiencies and create a poor relationship with food when removed without planning or adequate nutritional education. Ensure you consult with a trusted health professional before making any dietary changes.
- Quality and sustainability - The seafood sourced may not be farmed or caught sustainably. It's important to research the brands you are choosing.
- Expensive - Seafood can be more expensive than meat and poultry.
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Consider mercury - Adopting a pescatarian diet without proper planning and nutrient consideration may inadvertently lead to a higher consumption in fish high in mercury such as tuna, as this is often considered a cheap and easy dietary option on a pescatarian diet.