The yogurt aisle can be difficult when following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Many yogurts, particularly pre-flavored varieties, have high amounts of added sugars, increasing their carb count. Finding a low-carb yogurt involves understanding the different types and reading the nutrition label.
Understanding Yogurt and Carbohydrates
Yogurt's carb content varies depending on the straining process and the inclusion of sweeteners or fruit. Fermentation lowers lactose, but additional processing steps affect the final carb count.
Straining: Greek vs. Regular vs. Skyr
The difference in carbs between yogurt types comes from straining. Regular yogurt is fermented but unstrained, retaining whey and lactose. Greek and Skyr yogurts are strained to remove some whey. This makes them thicker, with higher protein and less sugar per serving.
Plain vs. Flavored and Other Additives
Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt. Fruit and sweeteners add sugar and carbs. Flavored yogurt can have more than triple the carbs of plain yogurt. Also, 'light' or 'low-fat' yogurts often add sugar.
Reading the Nutrition Label
To find the best low-carb option, read labels. Check these:
- Total Carbohydrates: This is key. Look for the lowest number.
- Added Sugars: This tells you the carbs that aren't from lactose. Aim for 0 grams.
- Net Carbs: For products with sugar alcohols (polyols), calculate net carbs by subtracting fiber and half the polyols from total carbs. This is common in keto products.
Low-Carb Yogurt Comparison
Here is a comparison of typical plain yogurt varieties, based on a 6-ounce (approx. 170g) serving:
| Yogurt Type | Approx. Carbohydrates | Approx. Protein | Approx. Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular (Whole Milk) | 8 grams | 6-9 grams | 4-8 grams |
| Greek (Whole Milk) | 7 grams | 15-20 grams | 4-8 grams |
| Skyr (Non-Fat) | 9 grams | 20-24 grams | 0 grams |
| Two Good Greek (Flavored) | 3 grams | 12 grams | 2 grams |
| Ratio Keto | 4 grams | 17 grams | 15 grams |
Top Low-Carb Yogurt Brands
- FAGE Total: Offers plain Greek yogurt with different milkfat percentages. The 0% milkfat version is a popular low-carb choice, with 16 grams of protein and 5 grams of carbs per serving.
- Ratio Keto Friendly: Made for low-carb and keto diets, this has as low as 4 grams of carbs and 17 grams of protein per serving, using alternative sweeteners.
- Two Good Greek Yogurt: This uses a unique straining method to create a flavorful yogurt with 3 grams of carbs and 2 grams of sugar per serving.
- Chobani Zero Sugar Greek Yogurt: A widely available option with 5 grams of carbs and 0 grams of sugar, using natural sweeteners and ultra-filtered milk.
- Icelandic Provisions Plain Skyr: High in protein and low in sugar, with around 8 grams of carbs per serving in the plain version.
- Culina Plant Based Yogurt: For a dairy-free, low-carb option, Culina uses coconut and has a lower carb count than some dairy yogurts.
Homemade Low-Carb Yogurt
Making your own allows control over ingredients. Recipes can use heavy cream, plain yogurt, and keto-friendly sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Straining for Greek-style yogurt can be done at home using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Yogurt
Plain, unsweetened Greek or Icelandic Skyr are the best for low carbs. These are naturally lower in carbohydrates and sugar due to their preparation. Choose whole milk or full-fat varieties and read labels carefully to avoid added sugars. Brands like Two Good and Ratio offer low-carb flavored products. Making your own yogurt provides control over macronutrient intake.
Delicious Low-Carb Yogurt Toppings
- Fresh berries (in moderation)
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
- Sugar-free granola or keto cereal
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
- Sugar-free sweeteners like stevia or erythritol
- A swirl of nut butter