Diet Ratings
Amaranth contains approximately 55-60g net carbs per 100g dry weight. A typical 1/4 cup cooked serving provides 12-15g net carbs. Pseudocereal status and whole food form do not offset carbohydrate density incompatible with ketosis.
Amaranth is a plant-based pseudocereal with complete protein. It is gluten-free, nutrient-dense, and minimally processed. Fully aligned with vegan principles.
Pseudocereal seed with complete protein profile and lower anti-nutrient content than grains. Some paleo practitioners accept it; others exclude it as a processed food not available to hunter-gatherers. Nutritional profile is favorable but Paleolithic availability is questionable.
iStrict paleo authorities exclude amaranth as a non-Paleolithic processed food. Some flexible paleo practitioners accept it as a nutrient-dense pseudocereal seed with acceptable anti-nutrient levels.
Amaranth is a nutrient-dense pseudocereal with complete protein, but not traditionally Mediterranean. Can be incorporated as a modern whole grain alternative.
iAmaranth originates from the Americas and has no historical Mediterranean tradition, though modern Mediterranean diet interpretations may include it.
Plant-derived pseudocereal seed. High carbohydrate content and plant origin make it incompatible with carnivore diet.
Amaranth is a grain-like seed and is explicitly excluded from Whole30.
Amaranth is a low-FODMAP pseudocereal approved by Monash University at standard servings.
Pseudocereal with exceptional nutrient density. High in fiber, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and complete protein. Gluten-free. Outstanding DASH choice for cardiovascular health.
Moderate glycemic index with complete protein. Acceptable Zone grain but not explicitly highlighted by Sears. Nutrient-dense but carb-dense; requires careful portioning.
iSome practitioners favor amaranth (score 7) for complete protein; Sears prioritizes low-glycemic response over protein completeness in grains.
Pseudocereal with complete protein, high fiber, and polyphenols. Rich in squalene with antioxidant properties. Low glycemic index. Supports stable blood sugar and anti-inflammatory microbiota.
Amaranth is a pseudocereal with exceptional protein (9g per cooked cup), high fiber (5g per cooked cup), and low fat. Complete protein with all essential amino acids. Nutrient-dense, easy to digest, and excellent for GLP-1 patients needing high protein density. Works well in small portions.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–9/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.