Spam's Place In The Keto Diet: Approved Or Not?

Spam is a canned lunch meat made from pork shoulder and ham, cured pork leg, potato starch, and sodium nitrate. It was created by Hormel Foods Corporation in 1937 to increase sales of the worst-selling pork shoulder. It gained popularity during World War II when it was sent to troops instead of fresh meat, and it has been a grocery store staple ever since. With its low-carb content, Spam is considered keto-friendly by some. However, it also contains sugar, sodium nitrite, and modified starch, which are not typically part of a keto diet. The decision to include Spam in a keto diet depends on the individual's philosophy and the type of keto diet they follow.

Spam is low-carb and keto-friendly

If you're following a ketogenic diet, you're probably looking for foods with high fat, medium protein, and low-carb macros. And that's where Spam comes in.

Spam is low in carbs and keto-friendly. A 2-ounce serving has only 1 gram of net carbs. The whole can of Spam Classic has about 6 grams of net carbs, 42 grams of protein, and a lot of fat.

While Spam may not be the prettiest or the healthiest protein, it can be a convenient option for hikers and campers, and it can be eaten warm or cold. You can fry it to eliminate its notoriously slimy texture or dice it like bacon and add it to eggs.

However, it's important to note that not all flavours of Spam are created equal when it comes to keto-friendliness. The Classic, Bacon, Turkey, and Hickory Smoke varieties have 1 gram of net carbs per 2-ounce serving, while Hot and Spicy, Jalapeno, Chorizo, and Black Pepper have 2 grams. Teriyaki Spam is the highest in carbs, with 5 grams per serving, but it's still relatively keto-friendly.

So, if you're craving some Spam, go for the Classic to get the healthiest option with the fewest added sugars and preservatives.

It's also high in fat and moderate in protein

Spam is high in fat and moderate in protein, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate method of eating, and Spam is low in carbohydrates.

The original Spam is made with pork shoulder and ham, potato starch, and sodium nitrate. It has a long shelf life and is easy to carry for hikers or campers. It can be eaten warm or cold and has a notorious texture that can be improved by frying.

The macros per 2-ounce serving are roughly 7 to 9 grams of protein, and there are now at least 15 varieties of Spam. The Classic variety is the best option for those following a ketogenic diet as it has the fewest preservatives and the healthiest ingredients with the least added sugar.

While Spam is high in fat and moderate in protein, it is also highly processed and contains unhealthy ingredients like sugar, sodium nitrite, and modified starch. This means that it is considered Dirty Keto. Dirty Keto refers to low-carb foods with unhealthy ingredients. While these foods can help you reach ketosis and lose weight, they may also lead to health problems in the long run.

Therefore, while Spam is high in fat and moderate in protein, which is suitable for a ketogenic diet, it is not the healthiest option due to its processing and unhealthy ingredients.

But it's considered ''dirty keto' due to additives

SPAM is a low-carb food that is considered keto-friendly. However, it is classified as "dirty keto" due to its highly processed nature and the inclusion of additives such as sugar, sodium nitrite, and modified starch. Dirty keto refers to a ketogenic diet that prioritizes convenience and reaching the desired macronutrient ratios while disregarding the quality of the food consumed. While SPAM is low in carbohydrates, it contains additives and unhealthy ingredients that may have negative health effects in the long run.

Dirty keto is characterized by a focus on ultra-processed and packaged foods, artificial ingredients, and convenience. It is popular among individuals who want to achieve ketosis without spending a lot of time preparing meals. While it still emphasizes reducing carbohydrate intake, dirty keto does not pay attention to the nutritional value of the fats and proteins consumed. This can lead to an increased risk of disease and nutrient deficiencies.

SPAM, as a processed meat, falls into the category of dirty keto due to its additives and unhealthy ingredients. These additives, such as trans fats, are linked to adverse health conditions, including cancer, obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the added sugars in processed foods may hinder the achievement and maintenance of ketosis.

Dirty keto, while effective for weight loss and fat burning, may not be the best approach for overall health and well-being. It is important to consider the potential long-term health consequences and aim for a more balanced and nutritious approach, such as "clean keto," which prioritizes whole, nutrient-dense foods while still maintaining the benefits of a ketogenic diet.

In summary, while SPAM is technically keto-approved due to its low carb content, it is considered dirty keto because of the additives and unhealthy ingredients it contains. For a more sustainable and nutritious ketogenic diet, it is advisable to opt for clean keto options that provide essential micronutrients and promote better health outcomes.

It's highly processed and contains sugar

While Spam is low in carbohydrates and can be considered keto-approved, it is a highly processed food that contains sugar. Spam is a polarising food product made from ground pork and processed ham. The meat mixture is combined with preservatives and flavouring agents, canned, and vacuum-sealed.

Spam was created in 1937 by the Hormel Foods Corporation to sell more pork shoulder, the worst-selling cut of pork. It gained popularity during World War II as a cheap and convenient food to feed soldiers overseas.

As a processed meat, Spam has been linked to several adverse health conditions. It is high in sodium, fat, and calories, and contains preservatives like sodium nitrite, which may cause negative health effects. Eating processed meat has been associated with an increased risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease, colorectal and stomach cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and high blood pressure.

In addition to sodium nitrite, Spam contains sugar, salt, potato starch, and flavourings. While the sugar content may not be significant, it is still an unhealthy ingredient that can raise your blood sugar levels and prevent you from reaching ketosis.

Therefore, despite being low in carbohydrates, the high level of processing and the presence of sugar and other unhealthy ingredients mean that Spam should be consumed in moderation as part of a keto diet. It is classified as 'Dirty Keto', a term used for low-carb foods that contain unhealthy ingredients. While Dirty Keto may help with weight loss in the short term, it could lead to health problems in the long run.

Classic Spam is the healthiest option

Classic Spam has the healthiest ingredients with the least added sugar compared to other varieties. It also has fewer preservatives. The macros for Classic Spam are also good for a keto diet, with a 2-ounce serving containing only 1 gram of net carbs, which is relatively keto-friendly.

If you are looking for a healthier option, it is recommended to stick to Classic Spam. While Spam may not be the healthiest food for a keto diet due to its processing and ingredients, Classic Spam is the best option if you choose to include it in your diet.

Classic Spam is also a good option for those on a budget or with limited access to keto-friendly foods, such as campers and college students. It has a long shelf life and is easy to carry and prepare, making it a convenient option for those on the go.

However, it is important to note that the definition of "healthy" may vary depending on your keto philosophy and personal preferences. Some people may prioritize the macronutrient profile (macros) of their food, while others may focus on the specific ingredients. Ultimately, the decision to include Classic Spam or any other type of Spam in your keto diet depends on your individual needs and preferences.

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