Can Dairy Be a Part of the Keto Diet?

Even if you’re not strictly following a keto diet, it’s become so popular that you probably know that you can use some of the principles in your diet. But if you’re trying to follow keto as strictly as possible, one question may give you a headache – can you or can’t you eat dairy?

Though butter and cheese are often considered keto staples, the answer is a bit more complicated. Many dairy products are great sources of protein, but you shouldn’t forget that they also contain sugar. The lactose found in dairy breaks down into glucose, a sugar in your body that will prevent ketosis. 

When in doubt, check the nutrition label on the product. You will quickly realize that ice cream, sweetened yogurts, and flavored milk have more calories and higher sugar content compared to plain milk or cheese. Hard cheese, soft cheese, butter, and even whipped cream should be your go-to choices if you can’t resist dairy while on keto.