How many carbs are in a gyro pita? A full nutrition breakdown

November 5, 2025 •

3 min read

A standard 6-inch white pita bread contains approximately 27-34 grams of carbohydrates, but the total carb count for a complete gyro pita can vary significantly depending on the fillings. This guide breaks down exactly how many carbs are in a gyro pita and how your choices impact the final count.

Quick Summary

The total carbohydrate content of a gyro pita depends heavily on the type of pita used and the ingredients included, such as meat, sauce, and vegetables. Different restaurant versions and homemade options can range widely in calories and macronutrient profiles.

Key Points

Pita Bread is the Main Carb Source: A single 6-inch white pita can contribute 27-34g of carbohydrates to the meal.
Fillings Vary the Count: Total carbs depend heavily on the type of meat and whether fries are added, which can increase the count dramatically.
Whole Wheat is a Healthier Choice: Opting for a whole wheat pita provides more fiber and nutrients for a more balanced carb intake.
Gyro Bowls are the Low-Carb Solution: To significantly reduce carbs, skip the pita entirely and serve the fillings in a bowl with a side salad or over cauliflower rice.
Tzatziki is Typically Low-Carb: The traditional yogurt-based sauce adds flavor with minimal carbs, unlike some other creamy alternatives.
Lamb Gyros Often Have Higher Carbs: Some preparations of lamb gyros, especially larger ones, can have a higher total carbohydrate count compared to chicken or pork versions.

The Carb Breakdown of a Gyro Pita

When evaluating the nutritional impact of a gyro, understanding the components is key. The largest source of carbohydrates in a traditional gyro pita is, unsurprisingly, the pita bread itself. The total carb count is then influenced by the type and quantity of fillings and sauces.

The Foundation: Pita Bread

Pita bread provides the structural base for a gyro, but its carb count can vary. The nutritional values differ based on whether the pita is made from white or whole wheat flour, as well as its size.

Standard White Pita: A single 6-inch white pita can contain between 27 and 34 grams of carbohydrates. This is typically made from enriched flour, which is a source of simple carbohydrates that provides quick energy.
Whole Wheat Pita: Opting for a whole wheat pita can be a slightly healthier choice. While the carb count is similar to white pita, whole wheat versions offer more dietary fiber and nutrients. For a standard 6-inch version, you can expect around 35 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of fiber.

Fillings and Their Nutritional Contribution

The meat and sauces play a significant role in the overall nutritional profile, primarily adding protein, fat, and a small number of additional carbs.

Meat: The type of meat is a major factor in the total calories and fat, but not a significant source of carbs. A standard pork gyro might have around 50g of protein, while a chicken gyro has around 44g. Lamb gyros can be higher in fat and calories.
Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy, yogurt-based sauce, typically made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, is relatively low in carbohydrates. A single serving adds flavor without a major carb increase.
Other Toppings: Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and onions add fiber and a negligible amount of carbohydrates. However, if a gyro includes added french fries, as is common in some variations, the total carb count will skyrocket.

Comparison of Gyro Variations

Here is a comparison of estimated nutritional values for different types of gyros, based on standard servings. Note that these values can differ significantly between restaurants and specific recipes.


Gyro Variation	Estimated Carbs (g)	Estimated Protein (g)	Estimated Fat (g)	Estimated Calories (kcal)
Standard Pork Gyro Pita	43	50	23	582
Chicken Gyro Sandwich	44	44	12	~480-530
Lamb Gyro Sandwich	77	35	11	557
Low-Carb Gyro Bowl	~10-15 (estimate)	High	Moderate	Moderate

Making a Smarter Gyro Choice

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, there are several ways to enjoy the flavors of a gyro without a significant carb load. Here are some smart modifications:

Order a Gyro Bowl: The simplest way to slash carbs is to skip the pita entirely and have the gyro fillings served in a bowl. This is a common and popular option at many restaurants.
Use a Lettuce Wrap: For a keto-friendly, low-carb alternative, wrap the meat and toppings in large, crisp lettuce leaves.
Opt for Whole Wheat Pita: If you prefer to keep the bread, choose a whole wheat pita for added fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.
Pile on the Veggies: Ask for extra fresh vegetables like tomatoes and onions to boost your fiber and nutrient intake without adding significant carbs.
Be Mindful of Sauces: While tzatziki is a good choice, be aware that creamy white sauces can add extra fat and calories, and some varieties may contain hidden sugars.
Request No Fries: Make sure to specify that you don't want fries inside the gyro, a common practice that substantially increases the overall carb count.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

The ultimate carb count for a gyro pita is not a fixed number but a variable based on its components. A standard gyro with a white pita is moderately high in carbs, but it can be a source of significant protein as well. For those on a low-carb diet or looking to reduce their intake, the most impactful change is removing the pita bread. By understanding the contribution of each ingredient, you can make an informed decision that fits your nutritional goals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you choose a classic preparation or a modern low-carb variation, the gyro remains a delicious and versatile meal. You can find detailed nutritional information for many food items and restaurant versions on reputable sites like Nutritionix.

Frequently Asked Questions

A traditional gyro with a standard white pita can be considered a moderately high-carb meal, with the pita contributing the majority of the carbohydrates. Total carb counts can range from 40g to over 70g, depending on the ingredients.

Yes, but you will need to modify it. The best low-carb or keto option is to eat the gyro fillings as a bowl or wrapped in lettuce instead of using the high-carb pita bread.

The meat itself is not a significant source of carbohydrates, providing primarily protein and fat. The carb count is primarily determined by the pita and other additions.

Yes, it matters. While the difference is not vast, choosing a whole wheat pita will give you more fiber for roughly the same number of carbs as a white pita, which can help with blood sugar regulation.

To reduce carbs, you can ask for the fillings in a bowl instead of a pita, use a lettuce wrap, or choose whole wheat pita over white. Also, be sure to avoid any hidden carbs like fries placed inside the wrap.

No, traditional tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt and cucumber, is generally low in carbohydrates. Store-bought versions can sometimes contain added sugars, so checking the label is recommended if you are buying it pre-made.

No, there is significant variation. Restaurant portion sizes, specific ingredients, and preparation methods can cause calorie, fat, and carb counts to differ greatly. Always check the nutritional information if available, or ask about ingredients.

You can calculate the total carbs by adding the individual components: carbs in the pita (read the package), plus minimal carbs from the meat, sauces, and veggies. This provides better control over your nutritional intake.