Diet Ratings
Corn is a grain with approximately 17g net carbs per 100g. Even small portions significantly exceed keto carb limits and promote insulin response.
Whole plant food with no animal products. Widely consumed vegan staple, though some prefer organic/non-GMO varieties.
Grain crop domesticated during Neolithic period. Not available to Paleolithic humans. High omega-6 content when processed into oil.
While a whole grain when minimally processed, corn is less emphasized in traditional Mediterranean diets compared to wheat, barley, and oats. Modern corn products often refined or high in omega-6 oils.
iSome Mediterranean diet researchers note that polenta (cornmeal) has historical use in Southern European regions and can be acceptable when made from whole grain corn without added fats.
Grain crop with high carbohydrate and polyunsaturated fat content. Explicitly prohibited in all carnivore diet variants including most permissive interpretations.
Corn is a grain and explicitly excluded from Whole30. Not permitted in any form.
Corn (maize) is low-FODMAP at standard servings per Monash University. Well-tolerated in elimination phase at typical portion sizes (½ cup kernels or 1 medium cob).
Whole grain vegetable with fiber and nutrients, but higher in carbohydrates and calories than leafy vegetables. Acceptable in moderation as part of whole grain intake. Fresh/frozen preferred over canned (sodium).
High-glycemic carbohydrate with high omega-6 polyunsaturated fat content (in corn oil). Dr. Sears explicitly identifies corn as problematic for Zone due to inflammatory omega-6 profile and rapid blood sugar elevation. Difficult to portion into balanced meals.
Corn is high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats relative to omega-3s, which may promote inflammation in excess. Refined corn products are worse. Whole corn in moderation is acceptable, but not prioritized in anti-inflammatory diets. Mainstream nutrition is more permissive than strict anti-inflammatory protocols.
iSome authorities (AHA, mainstream nutrition) consider corn a reasonable whole grain alternative. Dr. Weil's pyramid places it lower than other grains due to omega-6 content and processing concerns.
High in carbohydrates and natural sugars with low protein density. Calorie-dense relative to nutritional benefit for GLP-1 patients. Low fiber relative to calorie content. Does not align with GLP-1 dietary priorities of high protein and nutrient density per calorie.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–8/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.