Is Salmon Keto Friendly?

Whether you want smoked salmon for brunch, canned salmon in a lunch salad, or salmon filet for dinner, rest assured that it won't increase your daily carb count. If you need a break from red meat and poultry, salmon is a great main course.

Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, an essential fat that your body cannot produce. Research even shows that adding omega-3s to your diet improves the function of your heart, blood vessels and arteries. Plus, salmon is an excellent source of protein and potassium.

Salmon itself has no carbs, but be careful when you prepare it. If you pan-fry or bake salmon, use extra virgin olive oil or real butter with sugar-free seasonings. To round out the meal, add some steamed broccoli or baked asparagus as a tasty complement.

No water source is perfect, so all species of fish absorb contaminants to some degree. A 2004 study revealed that farmed salmon posed greater health risks than wild-caught salmon. But, global efforts in the last 40 years have drastically reduced contaminants in the fish we eat. To be on the safe side, do your research before serving fish to women who are pregnant or nursing, seniors, or children.