Canned Tuna on the Carnivore Diet: A Handy Protein You Can Feel Good About

As someone new to the carnivore diet I was worried I’d have to give up my beloved canned tuna. As a busy mom tuna is my go-to for quick sandwiches, salads, and snacks. But is packaged tuna allowed on such a restrictive diet?

I dove into the specifics of the carnivore diet and tuned into fellow tuna lovers’ experiences. The verdict? Canned tuna is a convenient protein source you can enjoy guilt-free on the carnivore lifestyle!

In this article, I’ll share how canned tuna fits into carnivore diet guidelines, tips for choosing the best products, and creative ways to enjoy this versatile fish. Let’s take a closer look at the role of canned tuna in a meat-centric approach.

An Overview of the Carnivore Diet

First a quick primer on this increasingly popular diet. The carnivore diet is an ultra low-carb, high protein plan focused on animal foods. The typical carnivore diet consists of

• Meat: Beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey.
• Fish: Salmon, tuna, sardines.
• Eggs
• Dairy: Cheese, butter, heavy cream.
• Water and herbal tea for beverages.

Off-limits are all carbs – no grains, legumes, fruits, starchy veggies or sweets The closest things to a plant on this diet are spices and seasonings

The philosophy is that focusing on nutrient-dense animal proteins and fats can improve energy, mental clarity, sleep and more. But how does convenient canned tuna fit in?

Why Canned Tuna Works for the Carnivore Lifestyle

Canned tuna checks all the boxes for suitability with a meat-only regimen:

High Protein – A 3 oz can of tuna provides about 22 grams of satisfying protein.

Low Carb – With zero carbs, tuna is perfect for a zero-carb diet.

Nutrient Dense – Tuna provides omega-3s, B12, selenium, and other vital nutrients.

Portable – Shelf-stable cans are easy to stash at home, work, or on the go.

Affordable – Canned tuna is budget-friendly compared to many protein sources.

Satiating – All that protein keeps you feeling full and energetic.

So convenient canned tuna can clearly be part of a carnivore diet. Next let’s look at choosing the best products for purity.

Selecting High Quality Canned Tuna

Not all canned tuna is created equal. To get the most benefits from canned tuna while sticking to carnivore diet guidelines, keep these tips in mind:

• Go for water-packed – Avoid vegetable broth or oil, which add unnecessary ingredients.

• Skip the flavored tuna – Stay away from tuna packed in salty sauces and spices.

• Choose sustainable options – Look for the Marine Stewardship Council’s blue sustainability label.

• Buy BPA-free cans – BPA is a harmful chemical in some can linings.

• Favor skipjack or yellowfin – They have less mercury than white albacore tuna.

• Prioritize freshness – Check expiration dates and avoid dented or damaged cans.

With so many tuna options lining grocery shelves, take a moment to read labels carefully. Seek out pure, additive-free varieties packed in water in BPA-free cans.

Enjoying Canned Tuna on a Carnivore Diet

Canned tuna isn’t just for boring sandwiches. Get creative with these carnivore-friendly recipes:

• Tuna salad – Jazz up canned tuna with celery, mustard, lemon juice and carnivore-approved mayo.

• Tuna stuffed avocado – Fill halved avocados with tuna salad for a keto treat.

• Tuna cucumber bites – Top cucumber slices with spiced tuna for a refreshing nosh.

• Tuna poke bowl – Build a bowl with tuna, greens, edamame, seaweed and sesame oil.

• Tuna fish cakes – Make crispy tuna patties with shredded cheese and herbs.

• Tuna casserole – Transform tuna into a hearty casserole baked with eggs, cream and spices.

With a little imagination, the simple tuna can becomes carnivore cuisine! This brain food protein will fuel your active lifestyle.

Potential Concerns to Keep in Mind

While canned tuna is carnivore-approved, a few precautions are in order:

• Mercury content – The FDA warns about over-consuming tuna due to mercury. Keep intake under 12 oz per week.

• Sodium content – Check labels for low sodium options, as tuna can be high in sodium.

• Not a sole protein source – For nutrition, enjoy tuna alongside other proteins like beef, lamb and eggs.

• Kidney issues – Those with kidney disease may need to limit protein from tuna and other meat sources. Consult a doctor.

As with any diet, individuals with specific health conditions should speak with a professional about any appropriate adaptations or restrictions.

The Takeaway: Enjoy Tuna in Moderation

For busy carnivores who love the convenience and nutrition of tuna, the pop-top can is your friend! Canned tuna fits perfectly into a meat-focused regimen.

Just be mindful of sodium and mercury by favoring low-sodium varieties and limiting intake to 12 oz or less per week. Stick to water-packed plain tuna and round out your diet with other protein sources.

At the end of the day, canned tuna is a handy way to get quality animal protein anytime – no cooking required! Keep a few cans stocked in your pantry for carnivore cooking and snacking anytime.

Commonly Asked Questions about Canned Tuna on the Carnivore Diet

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about enjoying canned tuna on a meat-only diet:

How much canned tuna can you eat on the carnivore diet?

Up to 12 oz per week is considered safe, but it’s smart to vary your protein sources and not solely rely on tuna.

Is canned tuna healthier than fresh tuna?

Not necessarily – fresh tuna is great when you can get it! But canned tuna makes eating this fish much more accessible.

What are the best tuna brands for the carnivore diet?

Look for sustainable options packed in water, such as Safe Catch, Wild Planet, or American Tuna. Read labels closely.

Can you eat canned tuna everyday on carnivore?

It’s best to keep tuna intake to 2-3 times per week due to mercury concerns. Rotate in other proteins for nutritional variety.

Is it okay to eat tuna salad on the carnivore diet?

Yes, tuna salad made with approved ingredients like celery, lemon juice, herbs, and carnivore-friendly mayo can fit into the diet.

Can you put canned tuna on a carnivore pizza?

Yes! Creating a “pizza” with a meatza crust and topping it with tuna and cheese makes for a satisfying low-carb meal.

What are other canned fish options on the carnivore diet?

Salmon, sardines, mackerel, crab, shrimp, clams, and oysters are all great options that provide variety.

So whip up a tuna snack, salad, or casserole and savor a taste of the sea – carnivore style! Canned tuna offers a simple protein fix that keeps you feeling energized.