Diet Ratings
Excellent keto protein with 0g net carbs and very high omega-3 content. Rich in healthy fats and micronutrients. Unprocessed whole food ideal for ketogenic diet.
Mackerel is fish flesh from an aquatic animal. Explicitly excluded from vegan diet regardless of nutritional profile.
Fatty fish with high omega-3 content. Available to Paleolithic coastal populations. Excellent nutrient profile.
Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium. Excellent for twice-weekly fish recommendation. Some mercury concern but benefits outweigh risks.
Mackerel is fatty fish with exceptional omega-3 content, vitamin D, and selenium. Minimally processed when fresh or frozen plain. Universally approved. Excellent nutrient density makes it a carnivore staple.
Whole fatty fish rich in omega-3s. Fully compliant when fresh or frozen without additives.
Mackerel is a plain protein with no fermentable carbohydrates. Monash University confirms all plain fish including mackerel are low-FODMAP at all reasonable serving sizes.
Mackerel is an oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and a core DASH protein. Excellent source of potassium, magnesium, and selenium. Low sodium when unseasoned.
Fatty fish with exceptional omega-3 content and anti-inflammatory fat profile. Lean protein component supports Zone macronutrient targets. Dr. Sears emphasizes mackerel as ideal anti-inflammatory protein source.
Highest omega-3 content among commonly consumed fish. Rich in EPA/DHA, selenium, and vitamin D. Excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Atlantic mackerel preferred over King mackerel (mercury).
Good protein (20g per 3oz) but higher fat content (14g per 3oz) increases risk of nausea, bloating, and reflux. Omega-3s are beneficial but fat density problematic for GLP-1 patients.
iSome practitioners prioritize mackerel's omega-3 and micronutrient density over fat concerns; individual GI tolerance is highly variable.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–10/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.