The Nordic diet

Goal: to lose weight and/or get healthier

Be aware: this is only the goal of this diet, not necessarily its outcome. Results vary from person to person. Consult your doctor or dietician before starting this (or any other) diet.

The Nordic diet

The Nordic diet, also called the 'Nordic way' or 'New Nordic diet', is based on products that are commonly eaten in the Nordic countries. The diet is high in protein and focuses on products with a low GI value.

You can compare the Nordic diet with other diets on the homepage.

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Glycemic index (GI)

The glycemic index (GI) has an important role in this diet. All products containing carbohydrates are listed on this index and have a value of 0-100. This value indicates how much the product makes your blood sugar rise. Read more about the glycemic index here.

When following the Nordic diet, you mainly eat products with a low GI value and less products with a high(er) GI value.

Less meat, more fish

The diet contains a lot of (fatty) fish and other products from the sea or from lakes. Meat is eaten less. The meat you do eat should be of high quality, preferably from the wild.

What is and is not recommended

Besides less meat and more fatty fish, the diet includes (a lot of) fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, (low-fat) dairy products and rye bread. Beans, peas, nuts and seeds are used as well. 

Meat, eggs and fatty dairy products, however, should be eaten in moderation. Additionally, processed products and drinks with added sugars should be avoided. The use of food supplements is also not recommended.

Products from the Nordic countries

The Nordic diet uses a lot of products that are typically used in Nordic countries, such as Moose meat, rapeseed oil, Icelandic yoghurt, blueberries, turnips and herring.

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Lose weight

The diet is not aimed at losing weight quickly. The focus is mainly on maintaining your weight after losing it.

Sustainable, local and seasonal products

The emphasis of the diet is on eating sustainable by going for local, organic and seasonal products and throwing away as little as possible. Additionally, it is preferred to prepare your own meals.

Be aware

Consult your doctor or dietician before starting this (or any) diet.

Books

There are several books on the Nordic diet in which you can find more information about this diet. Some examples are:

  • The Nordic Way by Arne Astrup
  • The Nordic Diet' by Trina Hahnemann
  • The New Nordic Diet' by Saga Finberg

Similar diets

The Nordic diet is often compared to the Mediterranean diet. Examples of other diets that use the glycaemic index are the Low GI diet, the Slow Carb diet, the Montignac diet and the GI diet.

Other high protein diets can be found in this overview.

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Allowed

  • Products with a low GI value
  • Egg (in moderation)
  • Seeds
  • Nuts
  • Peas
  • Beans
  • Rye Bread
  • Wholemeal products
  • Vegetables
  • Fruit
  • (Low-fat) dairy products
  • Oily fish
  • Rapeseed oil

Not allowed

  • Processed products
  • Food supplements
  • Added sugars
  • Products with a high GI value

Goals

  • Lose weight
  • Sustainable diet
  • Eating healthier

Exercise

As you see fit

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Dietitians

With the professional help of a dietitian it should be easier to reach your goals. Please contact a dietician in your area or talk to a doctor before starting any diet.

General warnings

Please take note that most diets do not have a scientific basis.

Consult your doctor or dietician before starting a diet, especially if you have a chronic condition like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, lung disease or kidney disease.

Eating disorders

If you think you might have an eating disorder (like anorexia or bulimia), it is important to look for professional help. Contact your (house) doctor or find help elsewhere. Here you can find a list of several websites that can provide (online) help. These sites also provide information for people that know someone with an eating disorder.