Tofu (silken)

plant-proteins

Tofu (silken)

8/ 10Excellent
Controversy: 6.9

Rated by 11 diets

6 approve2 caution3 avoid
Is Tofu (silken) Healthy?

Yes — Tofu (silken) is broadly considered healthy. 6 out of 11 diets approve it.

Nutrition Facts
Per 100g

Diet Ratings

Keto8/10APPROVED

Silken tofu contains approximately 1.5g net carbs per 100g serving with minimal carbohydrates and provides quality protein. It's a whole, unprocessed food compatible with ketogenic macros when portion-controlled.

Vegan9/10APPROVED

Whole plant-based food made from soybeans. Minimally processed, nutrient-dense, and universally accepted in vegan diets.

Paleo2/10AVOID

Tofu is made from soybeans, a legume explicitly excluded from paleo diet. Soy is processed and contains anti-nutrients like phytates and isoflavones.

Mediterranean8/10APPROVED

Tofu is a plant-based legume product rich in protein and fits well within Mediterranean principles. While not traditional to the Mediterranean region, it aligns with the diet's emphasis on plant-based proteins and minimal processing when plain.

Carnivore1/10AVOID

Tofu is a plant-derived soy product, fundamentally incompatible with carnivore diet principles. Contains no animal products and is processed from legumes.

Whole301/10AVOID

Tofu is made from soybeans, which are legumes explicitly excluded from Whole30. Soy is a prohibited legume regardless of processing method.

Low-FODMAP9/10APPROVED

Monash University has tested tofu extensively. Silken tofu is low in FODMAPs at standard servings (150g). Soy protein is well-tolerated and does not contain significant fructans, GOS, or polyols.

DASH9/10APPROVED

Excellent plant-based protein source with minimal sodium, no saturated fat, and rich in minerals. Aligns perfectly with DASH emphasis on lean proteins and plant-based options.

Zone6/10CAUTION

Silken tofu is a lean protein source but contains moderate carbohydrates and minimal fat. Macro ratio is approximately 6% protein, 2% fat, 2% carbs by weight—insufficient protein density for a standalone Zone protein block. Best used as part of a mixed meal.

Anti-Inflammatory8/10APPROVED

Soy-based complete protein with isoflavones (anti-inflammatory polyphenols). Low saturated fat, contains omega-3s. Well-researched anti-inflammatory benefits. Silken variety maintains nutrient profile while offering different texture applications.

GLP-1 Friendly5/10CAUTION

Silken tofu has lower protein density than firm tofu (~6g per 100g vs 15g) and higher water content. Soft texture may be easier on sensitive GLP-1 stomachs but provides less protein per calorie. Better as a base for protein-rich toppings than as a standalone protein source. Firm tofu is superior for GLP-1 patients.

iSome practitioners prefer silken tofu for its digestibility in early GLP-1 phases; most GLP-1 nutrition specialists recommend firm or extra-firm tofu for better protein density given the calorie constraint.

Controversy Index

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

Consensus6.9Divisive

Diet-Specific Tips for Tofu (silken)

Keto 8/10
  • Very low net carbs (1.5g per 100g)
  • Complete protein source
  • Minimal fat content requires pairing with fat sources
  • Whole food, unprocessed
Vegan 9/10
  • 100% plant-based
  • Whole food source
  • High protein
  • Minimal processing
Mediterranean 8/10
  • Plant-based protein source
  • Minimal processing when plain
  • Low saturated fat
  • Versatile preparation methods
Low-FODMAP 9/10
  • Soy-based protein
  • No fermentable carbohydrates
  • Monash tested and approved
DASH 9/10
  • Low sodium
  • Complete protein
  • Low saturated fat
  • Rich in calcium and magnesium
Zone 6/10
  • Lean protein source
  • Low fat content
  • Moderate carbohydrate content
  • Requires pairing with additional protein
  • Isoflavone content (phytoestrogens)
  • Complete amino acid profile
  • Isoflavone content
  • Low saturated fat
  • Omega-3 presence
  • Bioavailable minerals
  • Low protein density
  • High water content
  • Easy to digest
  • Low fat
  • Portion-dependent
Last reviewed: Our methodology
Is Tofu (silken) Healthy? Diet Ratings & Controversy Score | FoodRef.ai