You've started your keto diet journey, feeling invigorated and excited. And then, you encounter the yoghurt section in your local grocery store and ask yourself, "Can you eat yogurt on a keto diet?" The short answer is yes, but there are some caveats you need to be aware of.
When it comes to the question, "Can you eat yogurt on a keto diet?" the answer is a definite yes. However, the key to incorporating yogurt into your ketogenic lifestyle is choosing the right kind of yogurt. Full-fat Greek yogurt and regular yogurt, both unflavored and without added sugar, are excellent choices because they're high in protein and healthy fats, yet low in carbohydrates. However, like all foods on a keto diet, portion control is crucial. Aim to keep your daily net carbs between 20-50g to maintain ketosis. For ultimate control over the carb and sugar content, consider making your own yogurt at home. So, the bottom line is, yes, yogurt can be a part of your keto diet, as long as you choose wisely and manage your portions effectively.

The Versatility of Plain Yogurt in Keto
Plain yogurt can fit into a ketogenic diet because it’s a high protein food that also provides B vitamins and a good bacteria for gut health. You just need to keep an eye on portion sizes and the nutrition facts. While plain Greek yogurt and regular yogurt have similar fat content, Greek yogurt has a higher protein content and a thicker consistency. Therefore, it can be a great addition to your keto meal plan.
Can you eat yogurt on keto diet?
However, the critical detail to look out for is whether the yogurt is plain or flavored. Many yogurt brands have flavored versions that contain added sugar, disrupting your keto goals. Your best bet is plain yogurt with no added sugar and the active culture, Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
Here are a few simple tips to enjoy your yogurt keto-friendly:
- Choose the Right Yogurt: Go for plain, full-fat Greek yogurt, or regular yogurt. Low-fat yogurts are typically high in carbs due to added sugars. Look at the label to find yogurts that have fewer carbs and more healthy fats.
- Portion Control: Keep an eye on the portion sizes. Even full-fat Greek yogurt or low carb yogurt has some carbs, so it’s crucial not to go overboard.
- Add Healthy Fats: Top your yogurt with healthy fats like olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil. These will increase the fat content and make your meal even more ketogenic.
- Sweeten Wisely: If you need extra sweetness, avoid artificial sweeteners. Instead, opt for keto-friendly sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.
Crafting the Best Keto Yogurt: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Now, for those adventurous spirits who want to craft their yogurt, here's a simple keto yogurt recipe that has high fat, moderate protein, and low carb content. It’s made with wholesome ingredients and active cultures, promising a great taste and a big health boost. This yogurt is not only great for gut health but also an excellent choice for those monitoring their blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
Supplies Needed for Homemade Keto Yogurt
- Slow Cooker
- Kitchen Thermometer
- Cheesecloth
- Large Bowl
- Whisk
- Mason Jars
Ingredients for the Best Keto Yogurt
- 1 quart of whole milk from grass-fed cows (cow's milk is traditionally used, but goat's milk can be an alternative)
- 2 tablespoons of plain full-fat yogurt with active cultures as a starter
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
Step by Step Process
- Pour the milk into the slow cooker and add the heavy cream. Cover the slow cooker and set it on high.
- Allow the milk to reach a temperature of 180°F (82°C). This usually takes around 2 hours. Use your kitchen thermometer to check the temperature.
- Once the milk reaches 180°F, turn off the slow cooker and let the milk cool to 110°F-115°F (43°C-46°C). This is the perfect temperature to add your yogurt starter.
- Take a few tablespoons of the warm milk and mix it with the yogurt starter in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the starter mixture into the slow cooker and whisk it into the milk.
- Cover the slow cooker, wrap it in a thick blanket or towel, and leave it undisturbed in a warm place for 12-18 hours. The longer you leave it, the tangier your yogurt will be.
- After the incubation period, line a sieve with a cheesecloth, place it over a large bowl, and pour in the yogurt. This process will help achieve the thicker consistency typical of Greek yogurt.
- Store your homemade yogurt in mason jars in the fridge. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 1 cup):
- 150 calories
- 8g fat
- 9g protein
- 11g total carbohydrates
- 4g net carbs
This homemade yogurt is a great option that controls the amount of carbs and guarantees simple ingredients with no added sugar. You can enjoy this as part of your keto meal plan.
With the question, "Can you eat yogurt on a keto diet?" answered, it's time to explore the different types of yogurts that you can consider adding to your ketogenic lifestyle. Variety, as they say, is the spice of life, and it's no different when it comes to your diet.
Traditional Yogurt: Full-fat Greek and Regular Yogurt
Full-fat Greek yogurt and regular yogurt are excellent choices for those on a ketogenic diet. These yogurts offer an impressive nutritional profile rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency than regular yogurt, which many find appealing. Both are excellent sources of probiotic cultures like Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which support gut health.
Be sure to read the nutrition label carefully when buying these types of yogurt. Opt for plain versions with no added sugar to ensure you stay within your daily carb intake.
Dairy-Free Yogurts: Almond Milk and Coconut Milk Yogurt
For those who are dairy-intolerant or prefer plant-based options, almond milk and coconut milk yogurts are worth considering. They can be low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making them suitable for the keto diet.
Almond milk yogurt is often lower in protein than its dairy counterparts, but it's a source of vitamin E and other essential nutrients. On the other hand, coconut milk yogurt is high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that your body can quickly use for energy.
Again, make sure to choose unsweetened versions of these yogurts. Many brands add sugar to their dairy-free yogurts, increasing the carb count.
Best Toppings for Your Keto Yogurt
When considering what to add to your plain Greek yogurt or other keto-friendly yogurts, remember to keep it low-carb and high-fat. Berries, nuts, and seeds make excellent toppings. Not only do they add flavor and texture, but they also provide a wealth of nutritional benefits.
Berries: A Sweet Treat with Fewer Carbs
Berries are one of the best fruits to enjoy on a ketogenic diet. They are lower in carbs than most other fruits and are packed with antioxidants. A small handful of raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries can add a burst of flavor to your yogurt without pushing your carb intake over the limit.
Nuts and Seeds: Crunchy Goodness and Healthy Fats
Nuts and seeds are a staple in the ketogenic diet due to their high-fat and moderate-protein content. Walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch to your yogurt. Plus, they're a fantastic source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health.
In conclusion, yogurt can be a versatile and delicious component of a ketogenic diet, as long as you choose wisely and watch your portions. Whether you prefer dairy or dairy-free, there's a keto-friendly yogurt out there for you. And with the addition of berries, nuts, and seeds, you're all set for a nutritionally balanced, keto-approved treat!
So, can you eat yogurt on a keto diet? Yes, you can! Let's delve into the main takeaways:
Choose Wisely: All Yogurts Aren't Made Equal
The array of yogurt options at your local grocery store might be overwhelming. However, remember that not all yogurts are created equal.
The best yogurts for your ketogenic diet are those high in healthy fats and proteins but low in carbs. Full-fat Greek yogurt and regular yogurt are prime examples. They provide ample protein and healthy fats, making them a fulfilling meal or snack. Additionally, they're packed with live cultures like Lactobacillus bulgaricus, contributing to your gut health.
However, be wary of added sugar. Many yogurt brands, even those labeled as "healthy" or "natural," may contain significant amounts of added sugar, drastically increasing their carb content. So, always opt for plain, unflavored varieties and read the nutrition label carefully.
Watch Your Portion: Tracking Carb Intake
Portion control is a key aspect of the ketogenic diet. Although Greek yogurt or regular yogurt can be a part of your ketogenic lifestyle, it's still essential to watch your serving size.
The goal of the keto diet is to maintain a state of ketosis, where your body uses fats instead of glucose for energy. To achieve this, you should limit your daily carb intake to about 20-50g. Overindulging, even in healthier options like yogurt, can quickly push you beyond this limit, disrupting ketosis.
So, enjoy your yogurt, but keep an eye on those portion sizes. A cup of yogurt can typically be a part of your diet, but always count it within your daily carb allowance.
Make It at Home: Control Your Ingredients
For those who want to have complete control over what they're consuming, making your own yogurt is a great option. It's simpler than you might think, and our homemade yogurt recipe above can guide you through the process.
When you make your own yogurt, you have the ultimate say in the ingredients that go into it. You can ensure there's no added sugar or other unwanted elements, and you can even experiment with different types of milk, like whole milk from grass-fed cows or goat's milk. Plus, homemade yogurt has that satisfying homemade taste and texture that store-bought versions often can't match.
In Conclusion: can you eat yogurt on keto diet?
Embracing the keto lifestyle doesn't mean you have to say goodbye to all dairy products. On the contrary, the good news is, yogurt can be part of your ketogenic diet, provided you're mindful about the type of yogurt, portion sizes, and carb count. Full-fat Greek yogurt, especially homemade ones, could be a delicious, nutritious part of your low-carb diet, offering you health benefits like supporting heart health and contributing to weight loss.
So, next time you're shopping or craving a creamy treat, remember that yogurt can comfortably fit into your ketogenic lifestyle. Enjoy your keto journey!

Hello, I'm Melissa, the founder and visionary behind Everyday Ketogenic. With more than 12 years of experience in content creation, recipe development, and blogging, I've cultivated this platform into a leading resource for anyone interested in the ketogenic lifestyle. Everyday Ketogenic is my canvas, where I paint with words and ideas, bringing the keto world to life.