Carbs in Spinach: The Quick Answer
Spinach contains 0.8g of net carbs per 100g, calculated by subtracting 1.6g of dietary fiber from 2.4g of total carbohydrates. With 27.0 calories, 2.9g protein, and 0.6g fat per 100g, it is classified as Keto Friendly for carbohydrate content.
Net carbs — not total carbs — are what matter for keto and low-carb diets. Only net carbs raise blood sugar and affect insulin, which is why tracking them accurately is key to staying in ketosis. Use our Keto Macro Calculator to find your daily net carb limit based on your body and goals.
Is Spinach Keto Friendly?
Spinach is keto friendly with only 0.8g net carbs per 100g. It fits comfortably within the standard keto limit of 20–50g net carbs per day and can be included regularly on a ketogenic diet.
Best Low-Carb Pairings for Spinach
Spinach is already a smart low-carb choice. Here's how to build a great keto meal around it.
| Pair with | Best for | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs (in an omelet or frittata) | Breakfast | Wilt spinach into eggs — near-zero carbs, iron-rich |
| Garlic and olive oil (sautéed) | Side dish | Ready in 3 minutes — ~1g net carbs per serving |
| Feta cheese (in a salad) | Lunch salad | Greek spinach salad — ~3g net carbs, high in nutrients |
| Cream sauce (creamed spinach) | Steakhouse side | Spinach with cream and parmesan — ~3g net carbs |
How Net Carbs Are Calculated
Net carbs are calculated by subtracting dietary fiber (and sugar alcohols, if present) from total carbohydrates: Net Carbs = Total Carbs − Fiber. For Spinach: 2.4g − 1.6g = 0.8g net carbs per 100g.
Dietary fiber is subtracted because it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed as glucose. It does not raise blood sugar or trigger an insulin response, making it irrelevant for carb counting on keto and low-carb diets.