Is Lychee Keto?

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Lychee sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTLIMIT

Lychees are not ideal for keto at ~15.2g net carbs per 100g. High sugars and low fiber make them easy to overdo—best avoided, or use only as a tiny, pre-planned treat.

Lychees are not ideal for keto at ~15.2g net carbs per 100g. High sugars and low fiber make them easy to overdo—best avoided, or use only as a tiny, pre-planned treat.

  • Net carbs (100g)15.2g
  • Protein (100g)0.8g
  • Fat (100g)0.3g
  • Keto verdictLimit portions

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
15.2g
Total Carbs
17g
Fiber
1.3g
Protein
0.8g
Fat
0.3g
Calories
66

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY TO LIMIT IT ON KETO

  • Not recommended: ~15.2g net carbs per 100g is high for keto
  • Low fiber relative to sugars offers little glycemic buffering
  • Fructose-heavy sugars are rapidly used and can disrupt ketosis
  • Minimal satiety: very low fat and protein despite sugars
  • Small fruit units encourage overeating unless weighed
  • If used, keep to a very small portion and pair with fat/protein

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Excellent vitamin C source supporting collagen and immunity
  • Polyphenols (e.g., gallic/ellagic acids) provide antioxidant activity
  • Contains copper and manganese for enzymatic and bone health
  • May support cardiovascular markers when part of balanced diets
  • Potential anti-inflammatory compounds are present
  • Whole-fruit nutrients are positives—just not keto-aligned in typical portions

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

VERY SMALL PORTION

Limit to 2–3 lychees (~20–30g pulp) as a rare treat; log the carbs.

SPECIAL OCCASION ONLY

Serve shared portions at celebrations to cap intake.

WITH NUTS

Pair 2–3 lychees with a few macadamia-nuts or almonds to improve macros.

INFUSED WATER

Crush 1–2 lychees into sparkling-water with lime; strain solids to keep carbs lower.

EXOTIC SMOOTHIE

Blend a spoonful of pulp with coconut-milk-unsweetened and mct-oil—for carb-cycling days only.