What To Consider Before Eating Tuna On A Keto Diet - Tasting Table (2024)

ByJennifer Sweenie/

If you're reading this article right now, odds are you have, will have, or have had a can or pouch of tuna in your pantry. A whopping 266.2 million Americans consumed this favorite fish in 2020 alone, per Statista. Easy, affordable, shelf-stable, and versatile, tuna just may be the perfect protein.

When you think of the keto diet, no carbs, high fat, and lots of protein probably come to mind. While these are valid associations and the foundations of this dietary plan, it doesn't mean other important nutrients are shunned.

When embarking on any restrictive way of eating, such as with keto, it's helpful to evaluate if you are coming up short in any other areas of your nutrition needs, points out Biljana Novkovic, Ph.D. for SelfDecode. While opening a can of tuna seems like an easy option for a quick keto snack or lunch, there is something to consider before you grab that can opener.

Fiber-free isn't filling

What To Consider Before Eating Tuna On A Keto Diet - Tasting Table (2)

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Fiber falls under the carbohydrate umbrella. According to Harvard School of Public Health, it does an excellent job of keeping us moving and regular because our bodies cannot digest it. Because it remains intact as it moves through our system, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism shows it may also do an excellent job at keeping us feeling full and satiated by providing bulk and slowing the emptying of the stomach.

Per the USDA, tuna lands at 0 on the fiber spectrum, so needless to say, it is not a good source of the carb. However, with 24 grams of protein and 0 grams of carbohydrates or sugar in just 3 ounces, plus Omega-3 fatty acids (per StarKist), it's pretty perfect for the keto diet.

A simple solution to hit your fiber goals while enjoying tuna as part of your keto diet is to bulk up the can with some low-carb veggies. By just adding some celery to your tuna salad orwrapping it up in a butter lettuce leaf, you'll be adding on some grams of the friendly filler.

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What To Consider Before Eating Tuna On A Keto Diet - Tasting Table (2024)

FAQs

Is canned tuna ok for a keto diet? ›

Yes, tuna is both paleo- and keto-friendly. Because it contains essentially zero carbohydrates, it fits easily into any high-protein diet.

What is the best fish to eat on keto diet? ›

The healthiest and best seafood to consume while on the keto diet is high in protein and healthy fats while low in carbohydrates. Some of the best keto friendly seafood include salmon, mahi-mahi, mackerel, and crab.

Which is better, tuna in oil or water? ›

If you'll be flavoring your tinned fish, reach for water-packed. You may believe that, nutritionally, the better choice is tuna packed in water because it contains fewer calories than tuna packed in oil. Tuna in oil, however, is higher in bone-healthy vitamin D and selenium, which helps your body fight infections.

How much canned tuna is safe to eat per week? ›

Yes. Canned light tuna is in the “Best Choices” category and it is fine to eat 2 to 3 servings per week. We recommend that you eat a variety of fish. You may wish to try other affordable fish in the “Best Choices” category such as canned salmon or sardines, frozen fish, or fresh fish that are at a reduced price.

Does tuna burn belly fat? ›

Five foods that may help burn belly fat include: foods with soluble fiber like fruits, vegetables, and legumes. foods with protein like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. fatty fish like tuna and salmon.

Is mayonnaise ok on keto? ›

Mayonnaise is the perfect condiment for the Keto Diet because it consists of high fat, low protein, and zero carbohydrates. It also has many health benefits that can help you maintain Ketosis and achieve your weight loss goals on the Keto diet.

What cheese can you have on keto? ›

You can eat high fat foods like cheese on the Keto diet. Cheddar, Gouda, goat cheese, and blue cheese are the best to consider. Cheese to avoid on Keto are cottage cheese and low fat and processed varieties.

Can you eat shrimp on keto? ›

If you're following a keto diet, shrimp is keto-friendly, virtually carb-free, and very low in fat and calories. Healthy, clean proteins like shrimp make it painless to limit carbs, and the low fat and calorie counts mean you can manage weight while feeling full and enjoying fantastic meals.

Which seafood is not keto-friendly? ›

Fish and shellfish are very keto-friendly. Salmon and other fish are not only nearly carb-free but also rich in B vitamins, potassium, and selenium ( 9 ). However, the carb count in shellfish varies by type. While shrimp and most crabs contain no carbs, oysters and octopus do.

Can I eat tuna every day? ›

Certain types of tuna are high in mercury, which can have harmful effects on health in high amounts or in certain populations. For most healthy adults, it's recommended to consume at least 2 servings of fish per week, which can include tuna.

What is the healthiest canned tuna to eat? ›

For tuna varieties, skipjack earns the Best Choice label from the FDA, while yellowfin and albacore receive the Good Choice label. The FDA suggests avoiding bigeye tuna, which has the highest levels of mercury. Before consuming canned tuna, it is best to consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

Which is healthier, albacore or chunk light tuna? ›

Canned tuna is healthy: all types of tuna are high in protein and feature omega-3 fatty acids, yet lower in saturated fat and calories. However, albacore does have slightly more fat and calories than light tuna such as skipjack or yellowfin—which means it has more omega-3 fatty acids.

What kind of tuna does Subway use? ›

Subway's North American importers – Jana Brands and Rema Food Group – source wild-caught skipjack tuna from Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia, the top tuna-sourcing markets globally.

What's the difference between albacore and tuna? ›

Albacore tuna is a larger fish with a lighter colored flesh, a firmer texture, and a milder flavor than the solid or chunk light fish varieties. For this reason, some people prefer albacore over light for dishes that merit a milder flavor (like this No Stress Salad recipe).

What canned foods are keto friendly? ›

Sardines, Mackerel, Anchovies, and other Canned Fish

Canned fish is one of the best foods for long-term storage. It lasts for years and is packed with keto-friendly nutrition, mostly in the form of complete protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Is StarKist chunk light tuna keto friendly? ›

StarKist® makes it easy to incorporate seafood into your lifestyle. With 160 calories and 20g of protein per can, this nutrient dense tuna can works well with Mediterranean, Weight Watchers, Keto, and Paleo diet plans.

Is peanut butter keto friendly? ›

Peanut butter can definitely be part of a keto diet, but it's best to stick to plain options that are free of extra flavors and sweeteners. Almond butter is a good choice, too, and it's slightly lower in carbs. Additionally, you should be mindful of your portion size if you're trying to lose weight.

What foods are off limits for keto? ›

10 Foods You Can't Eat on the Keto Diet & Their Substitutes
  • Grains and Starches. ...
  • Sugary Foods and Sweets. ...
  • High-Carb Fruits. ...
  • Starchy Vegetables. ...
  • Legumes and Beans. ...
  • Processed Foods with Hidden Carbs. ...
  • Alcohol and co*cktails. ...
  • High-Carb Sauces and Condiments.

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