Diet Ratings
Lentils contain approximately 20g net carbs per cooked cup. Despite being high in fiber and protein, their carb content makes them unsuitable for ketogenic diets.
Lentils are whole plant legumes, unprocessed, nutrient-dense, and a staple protein and fiber source in vegan diets.
Legume explicitly excluded from paleo diet. High in antinutrients and not available to hunter-gatherers.
Lentils are a Mediterranean diet cornerstone, especially in Mediterranean basin regions. Excellent plant-based protein, fiber, and micronutrients. Minimal processing, traditional preparation methods.
Legume-derived plant food. Completely incompatible with carnivore diet. Contains no animal products.
Lentils are legumes. Legumes are explicitly excluded from Whole30 without exception.
Lentils are high in GOS oligosaccharides. Monash University classifies lentils as high-FODMAP at all reasonable servings.
Core DASH legume. Excellent fiber, potassium, magnesium, and plant protein. Very low sodium (4mg per cooked cup). Supports blood pressure reduction and cardiovascular health.
Legume with excellent protein (9g per cooked cup) and carbohydrate (20g per cooked cup). Low glycemic index and high fiber. Better protein-to-carb ratio than chickpeas or black beans. Usable in Zone with moderate portioning. Dr. Sears favors lentils among legumes.
Among the most nutrient-dense legumes. Exceptional fiber and polyphenol content. Complete protein when combined with grains. Low glycemic index. Rich in phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant activity. Supports healthy microbiome.
Exceptional protein (18g per cooked cup), very high fiber (16g), minimal fat (1g), nutrient-dense with iron and polyphenols. One of the best plant-based proteins for GLP-1 patients. Excellent satiety per calorie.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–10/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.