Diet Ratings
Peanuts contain approximately 5g net carbs per ounce with 14g fat and 7g protein. Technically legumes but widely accepted in keto due to low net carbs and good macros.
iSome strict keto practitioners avoid peanuts entirely due to their legume classification and higher omega-6 content, preferring tree nuts instead.
Whole plant food (legume), excellent protein source, nutrient-dense. Completely plant-based with no animal products or derivatives.
Peanuts are legumes, not nuts, and explicitly excluded from paleo diet. Legumes contain antinutrients and lectins that paleo diet avoids. Clear consensus among all major paleo authorities.
Technically legumes, not tree nuts. Nutritionally acceptable with healthy fats and protein, but not traditional Mediterranean staples. Often heavily processed or salted.
iSome Mediterranean diet authorities accept peanuts as equivalent to tree nuts given similar nutritional profiles. Spanish and Portuguese cuisines incorporate peanuts more than other Mediterranean regions.
Legume (not true nut) with high phytic acid, lectins, and carbohydrates. Explicitly excluded from carnivore diet.
Peanuts are legumes and explicitly excluded from Whole30 diet per official guidelines.
Peanuts are low in FODMAPs at standard serving sizes (23 peanuts/28g). Monash University has tested and confirmed low-FODMAP status. Well-tolerated in elimination phase.
Good source of magnesium, potassium, and plant protein. Low sodium, predominantly unsaturated fats. High fiber. Technically a legume, fully DASH-compliant.
Technically a legume, not a tree nut. Contains moderate omega-6 and some omega-3. Acceptable in Zone but less ideal than tree nuts. Resveratrol and polyphenols provide some anti-inflammatory benefit. Requires portioning.
Technically legume, not tree nut. Contains resveratrol and other polyphenols with anti-inflammatory potential. However, high omega-6 content and susceptibility to aflatoxin contamination. Acceptable in moderation if high-quality, but not emphasized in anti-inflammatory protocols.
iAIP and some paleo protocols restrict peanuts due to lectin content and omega-6 ratio. Mainstream anti-inflammatory guidance accepts peanuts in moderation as part of balanced diet. Dr. Weil includes peanut butter cautiously.
Good protein (7g per oz) with high fat content (14g per oz, mostly unsaturated). Calorie-dense (~160 cal per oz). Easier to overeat than other nuts. Unsaturated fat profile is favorable, but portion control is essential. Works better as a small snack or protein boost than a primary food source.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–9/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.