25 low-carb fruits to add sweetness but not carbs

Discover 25 low-carb fruits that are a perfect fit for a low-carb diet. These nutrient-packed options provide the natural sweetness of fresh fruit without the high sugar content, making them ideal choices to eat on the keto diet.

Low-carb fruits are essential to a healthy diet, especially for people following a low-carb or keto diet. They provide essential nutrients without overloading on carbs.

There are so many fruits and vegetables you can eat on a keto diet as long as you pick the right ones. Check their carb count and maintain the appropriate grams of carbs per day. 

What are low-carb fruits?

Low-carb fruits are those with a relatively low carbohydrate content. While the exact definition of what makes a fruit low-carb varies, they typically contain less than 10 grams of net carbs per serving. Net carbs represent the total carbs minus fiber, which your body does not digest and, therefore, does not impact blood sugar levels.

How do low-carb fruits fit into a keto diet?

The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that encourages the body to enter a state of ketosis, which burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. Because fruits are often high in carbs, many people following a keto diet avoid them altogether or limit their intake. However, you can incorporate some fruits into a keto diet in moderation if you stay within your daily carb limit.

Berries fit for a low-carb keto diet

First and foremost are the famous berries. These are the best fruits for a keto lifestyle as they are the fruits with the least amount of net carbs. 

• Strawberries: Vibrant and tangy, they are delicious and make a guilt-free treat that adds a burst of flavor to your snacks or desserts.
• Raspberries: These delicate and slightly tart fruits are high in fiber, making them a great choice to satisfy your sweet cravings while keeping your carb intake in check. 
• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, these tiny and flavorful balls are a fantastic addition to your breakfast bowls, yogurt or baked goods.
• Blackberries: A juicy and sweet option to enjoy as a snack, in smoothies or with some whipped cream for a simple dessert.
• Cranberries: These tart fruits are not just for Thanksgiving but are also a great year-round option. Whether you use them in cranberry sauce, baked goods or as a tangy addition to salads, cranberries offer a unique flavor profile.
• Mulberries: Small and sweet fruits that can be enjoyed fresh or dried. Sprinkle them on top of cereal, mix them into yogurt or incorporate them into baked goods for a delightful touch.
• Huckleberries: Small, deep-purple bites are known for their intense flavor. Enjoy them fresh as a snack, incorporate them into baked goods or use them as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
• Elderberries: Dark purple tiny balls have a slightly tart taste. You can use them to make jams and syrups or incorporate them into desserts and baked goods for a unique and flavorful twist.
• Gooseberries: These tart, mini fruits that look like tiny watermelons offer a refreshing taste. 
• Marionberries: These juicy and sweet wonders are a cross between blackberries and raspberries. Enjoy them fresh, use them in baked goods or blend them into smoothies for a burst of flavor.

“Low-carb fruits are a smart choice for those watching their carb intake. My favorite? Berries – like strawberries and blueberries. They’re delicious, packed with antioxidants and won’t send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster ride. They’re the perfect sweet treat on their own, in yogurt or with nut butter and dark chocolate for a low-carb lifestyle!”

–– Jessica Haggard, Primal Edge Health

More keto fruits to eat on a low-carb diet

• Lemons: Although not typically consumed on their own, lemons are incredibly low in carbs and can be used to add a zesty kick and tangy flavor to your water, curd, dressings, marinades or use its zest for toppings.
• Limes: Known for their tangy and acidic taste, limes are a fruit that adds a refreshing kick to beverages, dressings, or marinades. Squeeze some lime juice over grilled meat or use it to enhance the flavors of your favorite dishes.
• Coconut: While technically not a fruit but a drupe, coconuts offer a deliciously tropical flavor. 
• Olives: These delicious treats, technically classified as fruits, are rich in healthy fats.
• Tomatoes: While classified as a fruit, tomatoes are commonly used as a vegetable. Whether fresh in salads or cooked in sauces, they bring freshness and acidity to your dishes.
• Avocado: Creamy and versatile fruit is not just a low-carb option but also rich in healthy fats, making it a satisfying addition to salad, smoothies or enjoyed simply on its own. 

What extra fruits can you eat on a low-carb diet?

Here is a list of other fruits for a low carb diet but not for keto. These are slightly higher in carbs but can still be used in small amounts.

• Cantaloupe: This refreshing melon is an excellent choice for a fruit salad or a quick, hydrating snack.
• Peaches: Bursting with flavor during the summer months, peaches are a fruit you can enjoy on their own or incorporate into desserts, smoothies or even grilled for a caramelized treat.
• Watermelon: With its high water content and refreshing taste, watermelon is a summertime favorite that happens to be relatively low in carbs, making it a hydrating and guilt-free option for a sweet snack.
• Grapefruit: This tangy citrus fruit is known for its refreshing taste and relatively low-carb content, making it a popular choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake. 
• Kiwi: With its unique texture and sweet-tart flavor, kiwi is a delightful fruit that adds a tropical touch to your snacks or desserts. 
• Oranges: Although slightly higher in carbs than other fruits on this list, oranges can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a low-carb diet. 
• Pears: While some pears can be higher in carbs, there are options like the Asian pear or smaller-sized varieties. 
• Guava: This tropical fruit is an excellent choice for those following low-carb. Its fragrant aroma and sweet-tart taste make it a unique addition to your fruit platters or smoothies.
• Apples: While apples are slightly higher in carbs than other fruits on this list, you can still use them in moderation. 

Incorporating low-carb fruits and vegetables into your diet can be a game-changer, especially for those watching their carb intake. By focusing on grams of net carbs and opting for the fruits lowest in carbs, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits and natural sweetness that fruits offer. 

Zuzana is the creative force behind her websites Lowcarb-nocarb and Best Clean Eating. As a content creator, food recipe developer, blogger and photographer, Zuzana brings diverse skills to the table with a dedication to sharing delicious, healthy recipes and helpful tips with the readers. Get her Best Keto Recipes Book for free. 

This article originally appeared on Low Carb – No Carb.