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Hidden carbs / Protein & other

Is whey protein keto?

Keto-friendlyLow-carb: count net

Yes. Mostly protein with very few carbs. In a protein bar, the protein is rarely the carb problem.

What it is

Whey, milk, casein, soy, pea and egg-white proteins are mostly protein. Isolates have the least lactose or starch left; concentrates keep a little more.

In protein bars and shakes, look past the protein to the syrups, fibers and sugar alcohols listed next to it. That is where the carbs are.

How to count it

A low-carb ingredient. Count its (small) net carbs as usual.

Not a carb concern.

Where you will find it

  • Protein bars and shakes
  • Keto snacks

Also listed as

whey protein isolatewhey protein concentratewhey proteinmilk protein isolatemilk protein concentratemicellar caseincaseincalcium caseinatesodium caseinatesoy protein isolatesoy proteinpea protein
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General nutrition information, not medical advice. Products and formulas change, so check the nutrition panel too. If you manage diabetes or take medication that affects blood sugar, ask your doctor how to count these ingredients. See our health disclaimer.

Quick answers

Is whey protein keto?

Yes. Mostly protein with very few carbs. In a protein bar, the protein is rarely the carb problem.

Does whey protein count toward net carbs?

Low-carb: count net. A low-carb ingredient. Count its (small) net carbs as usual.

What is whey protein?

Whey, milk, casein, soy, pea and egg-white proteins are mostly protein. Isolates have the least lactose or starch left; concentrates keep a little more.

What other names does it go by on a label?

whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, whey protein, milk protein isolate, milk protein concentrate, micellar casein, casein, calcium caseinate, sodium caseinate, soy protein isolate, soy protein, pea protein.

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