Low-carb and keto drinks

Plain water is the best and simplest drink for everyday hydration. Enjoy it still or sparkling, perhaps with a slice of lemon for a refreshing twist. It’s naturally free from sugar and carbs, inexpensive, and always a great choice.

But sometimes you want something a little different! Explore our delicious low-carb and keto drink recipes, from creamy coffee favorites and refreshing iced drinks to satisfying smoothies and cozy hot beverages.

Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, a refreshing drink on a warm day, or something special to enjoy after dinner, you’ll find plenty of flavorful options without unnecessary added sugar.


Our most popular low-carb and keto drinks

From creamy coffee drinks to refreshing smoothies and homemade beverages, these favorites make it easy to enjoy something delicious while keeping carbs low.


Keto coffee drinks

Coffee lovers, this one’s for you! From classic coffee with cream to frothy iced coffee and rich, creamy variations, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your favorite brew while keeping carbs low.

Black coffee is naturally almost carb-free. Adding unsweetened milk alternatives, cream, or suitable low-carb sweeteners can help you create delicious coffee drinks without the sugar found in many café favorites.

Something sweet with your coffee?

A cup of coffee and a homemade low-carb treat make a delicious combination. Explore our favorite keto-friendly cookies, cakes, and other small treats to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.


Low-carb and keto smoothies

Creamy, refreshing, and easy to customize, low-carb smoothies can be a convenient breakfast, snack, or refreshing treat.

Choose ingredients such as unsweetened almond milk, avocado, plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or a small serving of berries. Adding a good source of protein can make your smoothie more satisfying, especially when you’re enjoying it as a meal.


Refreshing low-carb drinks

Looking for something cool and refreshing? Homemade iced tea, flavored water, and other sugar-free drinks are easy ways to stay hydrated without relying on sugary sodas or juices.

Add fresh mint, cucumber, citrus slices, or a few berries to sparkling or still water for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

For more inspiration, explore our low-carb drinks guide to discover the best everyday choices and which beverages are surprisingly high in sugar.


Warm and cozy low-carb drinks

There’s nothing quite like a comforting hot drink on a chilly day. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, or make something special with unsweetened cocoa, warm spices, and your favorite low-carb ingredients.

From rich hot chocolate to aromatic chai and pumpkin spice lattes, these cozy favorites are perfect when you want something a little more indulgent without loads of added sugar.


Tips for choosing low-carb and keto drinks

Keeping your drinks low in carbs doesn’t have to be complicated. Water is always an excellent starting point, and a few simple choices can help you enjoy other beverages without consuming unnecessary sugar.

  • Make water your everyday favorite: Still or sparkling water is naturally carb-free. Add a slice of lemon, cucumber, fresh mint, or a few berries for extra flavor.
  • Skip added sugar: Choose unsweetened coffee, tea, and milk alternatives whenever possible.
  • Check milk and cream: Regular milk contains naturally occurring sugar, while cream and unsweetened alternatives vary in carbohydrate content. Portions matter.
  • Be mindful of smoothies: Fruit juice, bananas, honey, and large servings of fruit can quickly increase the carb content. Use low-carb ingredients and consider adding protein.
  • Read nutrition labels: Bottled iced teas, flavored coffees, and ready-made smoothies can contain surprising amounts of added sugar.
  • Choose drinks that fit your goals: A creamy coffee or smoothie can be delicious, but beverages containing mostly fat provide little protein and aren’t necessarily a substitute for a balanced meal.

What about alcohol on a low-carb diet?

Some alcoholic drinks contain fewer carbohydrates than others, but alcohol can still affect sleep, appetite, and weight-management goals.

If you choose to drink, our low-carb alcohol guide explains the carbohydrate differences between popular options.


Frequently asked questions about low-carb drinks

What is the best drink on a low-carb or keto diet?

Plain water is the simplest and best everyday choice. It’s naturally free from carbohydrates, sugar, and calories. Add a slice of lemon or cucumber for extra flavor, or enjoy sparkling water if you prefer something fizzy.

What else can you drink on a keto diet?

Unsweetened coffee and tea are naturally very low in carbohydrates. You can also enjoy homemade low-carb smoothies, iced drinks, and coffee beverages made with ingredients that fit your daily carbohydrate goals.

Can you drink coffee on keto?

Absolutely! Black coffee contains very few carbohydrates. Cream, unsweetened milk alternatives, and low-carb sweeteners can be used to create different flavors. Be mindful of sugary syrups, sweetened creamers, and specialty coffee drinks.

Are smoothies keto-friendly?

They can be! It depends on the ingredients and portion size. Low-carb smoothies often use avocado, unsweetened almond milk, small amounts of berries, and protein-rich ingredients instead of fruit juice or large quantities of high-sugar fruit.

Can you drink milk on a keto diet?

Regular milk contains lactose, a naturally occurring sugar, so its carbohydrates can add up. Unsweetened almond milk and other lower-carb alternatives may be easier to fit into a keto diet. Check nutrition labels, as carbohydrate content varies between products.

Is bulletproof coffee a good keto breakfast?

Coffee blended with butter or oil is high in fat and typically very low in protein. While some people enjoy it, it doesn’t provide the same nutritional balance as a protein-rich breakfast. If you use it as part of your morning routine, consider how you’ll meet your protein and other nutrient needs throughout the day.

More low-carb recipe inspiration

Pair your favorite drink with something delicious! Explore our keto breakfast recipes, low-carb desserts, and dairy-free desserts.

For more information about everyday beverages, visit our low-carb drinks guide.