Have you been missing your weekend cold one since going keto? We get it. Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages around, so it’s not surprising that there are so many variations and brands of beer in the world. But regular beer is not a friend to the keto dieter. Generally, beer is made of water, hops, malted grain, and yeast. You can think of regular beer as ‘liquid bread’ - so not keto-friendly! Note that it’s the malted grain that gives beer its color, flavor, and aroma. Some brewers add even more sugar and unmalted grains to make it tastier.
But it’s not just the carbs to concern yourself with - it’s also the alcohol. Changes occur inside of you when you consume alcohol and carbs together. Your liver works to detoxify the alcohol in your system; in fact, your body processes the alcohol before it processes anything else. This means that the production of ketones from fatty acids is also delayed. So, technically, your liver is producing more ketones (to detoxify the alcohol), but it’s not the same as fat-burning. The alcohol won’t kick you out of ketosis, but it has a slowing effect on it. In moderation, this effect isn’t significant.
The negative impact of the alcohol, in addition to more carbs, is why one of the first things we think we’ll have to give up is beer - but we have happy news for you. Alcohol isn’t strictly forbidden on the keto diet. You just need to know its effects so you can govern yourself accordingly.
Like many other foods, we found several excellent low-carb alternatives for beer, so you don’t have to miss out on it at all. Of course, everyone has different tastes, but there are enough low-carb beers that surely you can find one you enjoy. Some low-carb alternatives taste bland or watered-down - because sometimes they are. But if you love beer and couldn’t live with a watered-down version, go on and drink the ones with slightly higher alcohol contents (the more flavorful ones), but just drink them less frequently.
In our research, we found that light beers had even lower carb counts among the low-carb beers. They also had less alcohol (ABV) than the regular beers, and of course, fewer calories. Less than 5 g net carbs per serving is a good benchmark when looking for keto-friendly beer, and we would recommend reading labels or finding the nutritional information online before you drink.
An interesting fact to remember as you consider beers is that beers with the highest carb counts tend to be darker in color. So avoid stouts or lager that are dark red, amber, or brown.
Related: Which Alcoholic Drinks Are Low-Carb
We searched high and low for keto-friendly beers that will quench your thirst and fit into your low-carb lifestyle. From low-carb lagers to keto-friendly IPAs you’ll be sure to find the perfect cold one to crack open!
1. Bud Light Next
Carbs: 1.5g Calories Per 12oz: 110 ABV: 5%
The first zero carb beer is finally here! Not only is this beer carb AND sugar free, it’s also only 80 calories. We’re sold on this crisp and refreshing beverage!
2. Bridge Brewing Company Prime Time
Carbs: 1.5g Calories Per 12oz: 110 ABV: 5%
With only 1.5g carbs, we already love this beer! A crisp and refreshing craft lager brewed in British Columbia. It gets its refreshing fruit flavor from juicy Citra and El Dorado hops.
Carbs: 2g Calories Per 12oz: 55 ABV: 2.4%
Made with caramel malts and a blend of imported hops, this golden lager is a deliciously refreshing and better for you option the next time you want a cold one!
4. North Coast Brewing Company Scrimshaw Pilsner
Carbs: 2g Calories Per 12oz: 100 ABV: 4.7%
Every sip of this beer is crisp, clean, and refreshing. With only a slightly hoppy taste, this pilsner is brewed in the classic German tradition - using Munich malt and Hallertauer and Tettnang hops.
5. Devils Backbone Brewing Company Bright Tangerine Sparkling Ale
Carbs: 2g Calories Per 12oz: 90 ABV: 4%
This sparkling ale is light, bubbly, and filled with citrus flavors! The perfect choice if you're looking for a non-traditional beer.
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Carbs: 2g Calories Per 12oz: 90 ABV: 4%
The beer we all know and love now has a low carb and calorie option! As always, each sip has its signature honey forward hops and delicious familiar taste—just don’t forget that lime!
Related: Which Alcoholic Drinks Are Low Carb?
7. Surly Brewing Company Rosé Lager
Carbs: 2.25g Calories Per 12oz: 127 ABV: 5.2%
Yes, you read that right, rosé-inspired beer! This lightly tart lager has black currants and strawberries bursting throughout. An excellent choice if you can't decide between a beer or a rosé for your next round.
Carbs: 2.4g Calories Per 12oz: 64 ABV: 2.8%
If you’re looking for a beer that’s extra low in calories and carbs then this one's for you! Although it’s light in scent and ingredients, it’s bold in taste and flavor. The best of both worlds!
9. R&D Brewing Lo Cal Resolution
Carbs: 2.4g Calories Per 12oz: 98 ABV: 4.2%
Brewed with Cashmere and Citra hops, this low carb, and low cal pale ale is refreshing and delicious - a great guilt-free option!
10. Michelob Ultra
Carbs: 2.5g Calories Per 12oz: 85 ABV: 3.8%
Made from a blend of organic grains, this smooth and satisfying lager will quench your thirst with every sip.
11. Flight Yuengling
Carbs: 2.6g Calories Per 12oz: 95 ABV: 4.2%
If you’re looking for a full-bodied light beer, you’ve come to the right place. This clean, crisp and refreshing brew is full of flavor without all the carbs!
12. Peak Brewing Peak Hazy IPA
Carbs: 3g Calories Per 12oz: 95 ABV: 4.1%
IPA fans - this one's for you! This IPA is hop-forward and overflowing with organic Calypso, Citra and Simcoe hops all from organic farmers. Every sip is more delicious than the last with this refreshing beverage.
Carbs: 3g Calories Per 12oz: 98 ABV: 4%
Another IPA that captures the essence and hoppy style of an IPA, without the high calories and carbs! Bitter, smooth, and refreshing - all the qualities you want in your next IPA.
Carbs: 3.1g Calories Per 12oz: 95 ABV: 4.01%
If you love fruit-infused drinks, then this one is for you! Bursting with grapefruit flavors, this lager is tangy, tart, and the definition of the perfect warm summer day drink.
Final thoughts
A cold beer is a great way to add buzz and bubbles to your life. You can choose from the above low-carb beers or find your own to add to your keto diet. Just make sure that you’re mindful of how much you’re drinking and how often. Enjoy.
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