Are Clams Keto-Friendly?

Clams are a keto-friendly seafood option. They have low net carb value and high protein content, which makes them a good option for keto dieters.

Low in Net Carbs

• Clams are low in net carbs, with just 3.57g per 100g. This makes them a good choice for the keto diet.
• On the keto diet, you need to eat a reduced carb intake, around 20–30g.
• The lower carb intake on the keto diet is to help maintain the state of ketosis. In this metabolic state, the body burns stored body fat for fuel rather than blood glucose.
• If you eat too many carbs, your blood sugar will spike and end ketosis.
• Ketosis helps keto dieters reduce their weight and burn excess fat.

Protein-Rich

• Clams have lots of protein in them. This is great for muscle building and repair and enzyme production.
• On the keto diet, you need to eat protein at a moderate rate. This usually means getting 10–20% of your calories from protein.
• Other great sources of keto-friendly protein include turkey and bluefish tuna.
• Protein can be used as a fuel source by the body through a process called gluconeogenesis. This is when the amino acids in proteins are burned to produce glucose. 
• So, if you eat too much protein, your body will burn it for fuel rather than stored body fat, moving you out of ketosis.
• Keep in mind that not everything prepared with clams is also compatible with your diet. Clam chowder, for example, will kick you out of ketosis almost instantly.

Natural and Whole Food

• Clams are a whole and natural food. This means they have no added ingredients. Other natural and whole foods you can consume on the keto diet include fruits like acai berries and non-starchy veggies like cauliflower.
• Many processed foods contain additives, preservatives, and sugar which can move your body out of ketosis.
• On the keto diet, we recommend eating as much home-cooked food as possible so that you know exactly what you’re putting into your body.