Low-Carb Grains Guide
35 items classified under standard Low-Carb guidelines.
Low-Carb classifies foods based on carbohydrate content. Of the 35 grains evaluated, 0 are classified as Allowed, 2 as Limited, and 33 as Not Allowed.
Under Low-Carb guidelines, nearly every item in the grains category is classified as Not Allowed. The reason is consistent across the category: each item is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. The nutrition data below is still useful for comparing alternatives or understanding what these foods contribute when eaten on other dietary frameworks.
Quick Reference
| Food | Status | Net carbs (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Corn | Limited | 16.7g |
| Quinoa | Limited | 18.5g |
| Amaranth | Not Allowed | 4g |
| Arrowroot Powder | Not Allowed | 12.1g |
| Bagel | Not Allowed | 50.8g |
| Barley | Not Allowed | 62.1g |
| Buckwheat | Not Allowed | 61.5g |
| Burrito | Not Allowed | 21.4g |
| Corn Flakes | Not Allowed | 8.9g |
| Cornmeal | Not Allowed | 68.2g |
| Cornstarch | Not Allowed | 90.4g |
| Croutons | Not Allowed | 68.4g |
| English Muffin | Not Allowed | 40.7g |
| Fried Rice | Not Allowed | 31.7g |
| Granola Bars | Not Allowed | 59.1g |
| Millet | Not Allowed | 64.3g |
| Naan | Not Allowed | 45g |
| Nachos | Not Allowed | 22.2g |
| Oat Flour | Not Allowed | 59.2g |
| Oats | Not Allowed | 57.6g |
| Pancakes | Not Allowed | 33.2g |
| Pasta | Not Allowed | 71.5g |
| Pita Bread | Not Allowed | 64.5g |
| Pizza | Not Allowed | 28.2g |
| Rice | Not Allowed | 76.9g |
| Rice Cakes | Not Allowed | 76.9g |
| Rice Crackers | Not Allowed | 82.6g |
| Rice Noodles | Not Allowed | 78.6g |
| Rye Bread | Not Allowed | 60.8g |
| Sourdough Bread | Not Allowed | 49.7g |
| Spelt | Not Allowed | 22.5g |
| Tacos | Not Allowed | 12.1g |
| Tapioca Starch | Not Allowed | 87.8g |
| Waffles | Not Allowed | 45.8g |
| Wheat Flour | Not Allowed | 61.4g |
Classification Breakdown
2 Limited — These items have a carb load that fits some low-carb versions but not the stricter ones. 33 Not Allowed — These are high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans.
Low-carb spans from about 150g/day down to 20g/day, so the same food can be in or out depending on which end of the spectrum.
Limited Grains (2)
Corn
LimitedCorn is classified as Limited on Low-Carb, with 16.7g net carbs per 100g. This means it is a carb load that fits some low-carb versions but not the stricter ones. Among the 35 items in this category, corn sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Quinoa at 18.5g. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Corn (raw) | 86kcal | 3.3g | 1.4g | 18.7g | 2g | 16.7g |
| Sweet Corn (canned) | 67kcal | 2.3g | 1.2g | 14.3g | 2g | 12.3g |
Quinoa
LimitedWith 18.5g net carbs per 100g, Quinoa earns a Limited classification on Low-Carb. It is a carb load that fits some low-carb versions but not the stricter ones. Beyond the primary classification, quinoa also provides 2.8g fiber per 100g. Among the 35 items in this category, quinoa sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Burrito at 21.4g. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | 368kcal | 14.1g | 6.1g | 64.2g | 7g | 57.2g |
| Cooked | 120kcal | 4.4g | 1.9g | 21.3g | 2.8g | 18.5g |
Not Allowed Grains (33)
Amaranth
Not AllowedAt 4g net carbs per 100g, Amaranth falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Among the 35 items in this category, amaranth sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Corn Flakes at 8.9g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Arrowroot Powder
Not AllowedAt 12.1g net carbs per 100g, Arrowroot Powder falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Among the 35 items in this category, arrowroot powder sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Tacos at 12.1g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Bagel
Not AllowedWith 50.8g net carbs per 100g, Bagel earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 10.6g protein and 422mg sodium, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Sourdough Bread and Oats for net carbs, ranking 17 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Barley
Not AllowedAt 62.1g net carbs per 100g, Barley falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, barley also provides 9.9g protein and 15.6g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Buckwheat and Millet for net carbs, ranking 24 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Buckwheat
Not AllowedAt 61.5g net carbs per 100g, Buckwheat falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 13.2g protein and 10g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Wheat Flour and Barley for net carbs, ranking 23 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Burrito
Not AllowedWith 21.4g net carbs per 100g, Burrito earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 11.1g protein and 8.5g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Among the 35 items in this category, burrito sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Nachos at 22.2g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Corn Flakes
Not AllowedAt 8.9g net carbs per 100g, Corn Flakes falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Among the 35 items in this category, corn flakes sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Arrowroot Powder at 12.1g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Cornmeal
Not AllowedAt 68.2g net carbs per 100g, Cornmeal falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.4g protein and 5.4g fat per serving. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Pita Bread at 64.5g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Cornstarch
Not AllowedCornstarch is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 90.4g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Tapioca Starch at 87.8g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Croutons
Not AllowedAt 68.4g net carbs per 100g, Croutons falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, croutons also provides 11.9g protein and 6.6g fat per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Cornmeal at 68.2g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
English Muffin
Not AllowedEnglish Muffin is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 40.7g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 8.9g protein and 3.5g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Pancakes and Naan for net carbs, ranking 13 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Fried Rice
Not AllowedAt 31.7g net carbs per 100g, Fried Rice falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 387mg sodium per serving. Within this category, it falls between Pizza and Pancakes for net carbs, ranking 11 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Granola Bars
Not AllowedAt 59.1g net carbs per 100g, Granola Bars falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, granola bars also provides 10.1g protein and 19.8g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Oats and Oat Flour for net carbs, ranking 19 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Millet
Not AllowedMillet is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 64.3g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 11g protein and 8.5g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Barley and Pita Bread for net carbs, ranking 25 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Naan
Not AllowedNaan is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 45g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 11.1g protein and 7.3g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between English Muffin and Waffles for net carbs, ranking 14 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Nachos
Not AllowedAt 22.2g net carbs per 100g, Nachos falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, nachos also provides 7.6g protein and 15.9g fat per 100g. Among the 35 items in this category, nachos sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Spelt at 22.5g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Oat Flour
Not AllowedOat Flour is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 59.2g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 14.7g protein and 9.1g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Granola Bars and Rye Bread for net carbs, ranking 20 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Oats
Not AllowedWith 57.6g net carbs per 100g, Oats earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, oats also provides 13.2g protein and 6.5g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Bagel and Granola Bars for net carbs, ranking 18 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolled Oats (dry) | 379kcal | 13.2g | 6.5g | 67.7g | 10.1g | 57.6g |
| Oatmeal (cooked) | 379kcal | 13.2g | 6.5g | 67.7g | 10.1g | 57.6g |
Pancakes
Not AllowedAt 33.2g net carbs per 100g, Pancakes falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 7.4g protein and 12.1g fat per serving. Within this category, it falls between Fried Rice and English Muffin for net carbs, ranking 12 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pasta
Not AllowedAt 71.5g net carbs per 100g, Pasta falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, pasta also provides 13g protein and 3.2g fiber per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Croutons at 68.4g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Pasta (cooked) | 157kcal | 5.8g | 0.9g | 30.6g | 1.8g | 28.8g |
| Whole Wheat Pasta (cooked) | 159kcal | 5.8g | 1.5g | 31.5g | 4.6g | 26.9g |
Pita Bread
Not AllowedPita Bread is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 64.5g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 11.8g protein and 15.2g fat per serving. Within this category, it falls between Millet and Cornmeal for net carbs, ranking 26 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pizza
Not AllowedWith 28.2g net carbs per 100g, Pizza earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, pizza also provides 11.7g protein and 12.6g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Spelt and Fried Rice for net carbs, ranking 10 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice
Not AllowedWith 76.9g net carbs per 100g, Rice earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, rice also provides 7.1g protein and 4.2g fiber per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Pasta at 71.5g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Net Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Rice (cooked) | 130kcal | 2.7g | 0.3g | 28.2g | 0.4g | 27.8g |
| Brown Rice (cooked) | 112kcal | 2.3g | 0.8g | 23.5g | 1.8g | 21.7g |
Rice Cakes
Not AllowedAt 76.9g net carbs per 100g, Rice Cakes falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, rice cakes also provides 7.1g protein and 4.2g fiber per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Rice at 76.9g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice Crackers
Not AllowedRice Crackers is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 82.6g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 10g protein and 233mg sodium, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Rice Noodles at 78.6g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice Noodles
Not AllowedRice Noodles is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 78.6g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 6g protein, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Rice Cakes at 76.9g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rye Bread
Not AllowedAt 60.8g net carbs per 100g, Rye Bread falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.3g protein and 15.1g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Oat Flour and Wheat Flour for net carbs, ranking 21 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Sourdough Bread
Not AllowedAt 49.7g net carbs per 100g, Sourdough Bread falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. It is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Beyond the primary classification, sourdough bread also provides 10.8g protein and 2.2g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Waffles and Bagel for net carbs, ranking 16 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Spelt
Not AllowedSpelt is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 22.5g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 5.5g protein and 3.9g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Nachos and Pizza for net carbs, ranking 9 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Tacos
Not AllowedWith 12.1g net carbs per 100g, Tacos earns a Not Allowed classification on Low-Carb. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 6.7g protein and 9.2g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Among the 35 items in this category, tacos sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Corn at 16.7g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Tapioca Starch
Not AllowedAt 87.8g net carbs per 100g, Tapioca Starch falls into the Not Allowed category under Low-Carb guidelines. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Rice Crackers at 82.6g.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Waffles
Not AllowedWaffles is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 45.8g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. It also contains 7.4g protein and 9.5g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Naan and Sourdough Bread for net carbs, ranking 15 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Wheat Flour
Not AllowedWheat Flour is classified as Not Allowed on Low-Carb, with 61.4g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is high enough in carbohydrates to crowd out the rest of the day on most low-carb plans. Nutritionally, it also delivers 9.6g protein and 13.1g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Rye Bread and Buckwheat for net carbs, ranking 22 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central