Dal (lentil soup)

legumes

Dal (lentil soup)

5/ 10Mixed
Controversy: 7.7

Rated by 11 diets

5 approve1 caution5 avoid
Is Dal (lentil soup) Healthy?

It depends — Dal (lentil soup) is a mixed bag. Some diets approve it while others urge caution. Context and quantity matter.

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g
Calories
116kcal
Protein
9g
Carbs
20g
Fat
0.4g
Fiber
7.9g
Sugar
1.8g
Sodium
400mg

Diet Ratings

Keto2/10AVOID

Lentils are legumes with high net carb content. A typical serving of dal contains 15-20g net carbs, which can consume the entire daily keto allowance in a single meal.

Vegan9/10APPROVED

Whole plant-based legume dish. Lentils are nutrient-dense, protein-rich, and completely vegan. Typically prepared with plant oils and spices.

Paleo2/10AVOID

Lentils are legumes, explicitly excluded from paleo diet due to high lectin and phytic acid content, which impair nutrient absorption and gut health.

Mediterranean9/10APPROVED

Legumes are a cornerstone of Mediterranean diet. Dal is a traditional preparation of lentils, rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and micronutrients. Typically prepared with olive oil and spices, aligning perfectly with Mediterranean principles.

Carnivore1/10AVOID

Lentils are legumes, a plant food explicitly excluded from carnivore diet. High carbohydrate and plant protein content incompatible with carnivore principles.

Whole301/10AVOID

Lentils are legumes, which are explicitly excluded from Whole30. Dal is primarily composed of lentils, making it non-compliant regardless of preparation method.

Low-FODMAP2/10AVOID

Lentils are legumes containing high GOS (galacto-oligosaccharides), a fermentable oligosaccharide. Dal is typically consumed in larger portions that exceed low-FODMAP serving limits. Monash University rates cooked lentils as high-FODMAP.

DASH9/10APPROVED

Lentils are a core DASH legume, rich in fiber, potassium, magnesium, and plant protein. Dal is minimally processed and typically low in sodium when prepared without added salt. Excellent nutrient density aligns with DASH principles.

Zone5/10CAUTION

Lentils are legumes with moderate glycemic impact and reasonable protein content. However, dal's carb-to-protein ratio typically skews toward carbs unless paired with lean protein and fat. Requires careful portioning and balancing with other macronutrients to hit 40/30/30 target.

Anti-Inflammatory9/10APPROVED

Lentils are legumes rich in fiber, polyphenols, and plant-based protein with minimal inflammatory load. Dal preparation typically includes anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and cumin. Low glycemic index and excellent source of resistant starch.

GLP-1 Friendly8/10APPROVED

Dal is a traditional lentil-based soup with excellent protein (12-15g per cup depending on recipe), high fiber, and easy digestibility due to soft texture and cooking method. Typically made with minimal fat if prepared traditionally. Hydrating and nutrient-dense. Ideal for GLP-1 patients.

Controversy Index

Score range: 19/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.

Consensus7.7Divisive

Diet-Specific Tips for Dal (lentil soup)

Vegan 9/10
  • whole food legume
  • high protein
  • traditional vegan staple
  • minimal processing
Mediterranean 9/10
  • legume-based
  • high fiber
  • plant protein
  • traditional preparation
  • minimal processing
DASH 9/10
  • High fiber content
  • Rich in potassium and magnesium
  • Plant-based protein source
  • Low sodium when prepared without salt
  • Supports cardiovascular health
Zone 5/10
  • Moderate glycemic index for legumes
  • Decent fiber content
  • Carb-heavy without additional protein
  • Traditional preparation often uses ghee (acceptable fat source)
  • High fiber content
  • Polyphenol-rich legume
  • Often prepared with turmeric
  • Low glycemic index
  • Plant-based protein
  • High protein (12-15g per cup)
  • High fiber from lentils
  • Soft, easy-to-digest texture
  • Hydrating (high water content)
  • Nutrient-dense with spices
Last reviewed: Our methodology
Is Dal (lentil soup) Healthy? Diet Ratings & Controversy Score | FoodRef.ai