Is Bagel Keto?

Bread & Baked
Bagel sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTAVOID

Bagels are extremely high-carb (~50g net per 100g). A single bagel (85–100g) typically delivers 40–50g net carbs—enough to exhaust most daily keto budgets. Best avoided; use low-carb substitutes instead.

Bagels are extremely high-carb (~50g net per 100g). A single bagel (85–100g) typically delivers 40–50g net carbs—enough to exhaust most daily keto budgets. Best avoided; use low-carb substitutes instead.

  • Net carbs (100g)50g
  • Protein (100g)10g
  • Fat (100g)1.5g
  • Keto verdictAvoid on keto

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
50g
Total Carbs
54g
Fiber
4g
Protein
10g
Fat
1.5g
Calories
272

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S NOT KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Not suitable for keto: very high net carbs per 100g and per serving
  • Refined wheat starch drives a high glycemic response
  • Even half a bagel (~20–25g net) strains strict keto limits
  • Low fat and modest protein yield a poor keto macro profile
  • Toppings often add extra carbs (sweet spreads, honey, etc.)
  • Choose low-carb bread alternatives for a similar experience

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • May provide B vitamins (enriched flour) and selenium
  • Contains some dietary fiber depending on the variety
  • Whole-grain versions can offer more micronutrients (still high-carb)
  • Convenient energy source for non-keto dietary patterns
  • Can be a vehicle for protein/fat-rich toppings (not keto-compatible overall)

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

AVOID COMPLETELY

Skip bagels on keto; even small portions can disrupt ketosis.

KETO BAGEL ALTERNATIVE

Make almond-flour–based bagels (with egg and cream cheese) at ~2–4g net carbs each.

BAGEL-INSPIRED BREAKFAST

Build a plate with cream-cheese, salmon, cucumber, and caper-like flavors—no bread needed.

EGG MUFFIN ROUNDS

Bake egg-and-cheese muffin rounds as a sturdy base for breakfast sandwiches.