I understand the intent of your question. I am not sure I can answer it to your satisfaction, but I will try. I think the original concept was all about a period of self denial to prepare one's self for the spirituality of the Easter weekend. During this period, we would contemplate Christ's sacrifice and we would try to do a little personal sacrifice to prepare ourselves for the holiness and joy of Easter. Fasting or partial fasting CLEARLY fits into the concept of self denial. For many, I suppose abstinence from red meat is also self denial. I think this is the point of "meatless" Fridays in the old days and on Lenten Fridays nowadays. However, as I said, fish is always a treat for me and countless others like me, so self denial doesn't factor in for us, as it was originally intended. I do try to do a few extra things during Lent and I try to keep them positive in attitude, rather than negative. For example, I'd much rather go out of my way to do something nice for another person each day, than deny myself something. See what I mean between positive and negative slants on this thing?
My theory is that the fasting and diet restrictions originally had a practical purpose. At this time of year the stored foods from the fall harvest would start to run low and the animals that were left were needed for breeding in the spring so communities would impose rationing to get through till spring. Beef, lamb & pork were off the menu, but if you could catch some fish you were good. Of course in ancient times that got all wrapped up with religious imperative to make it stick. Then, once spring actually arrives and you are assured of enough food, it is time for a big feast & celebration.
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