No, black coffee does not contain any carbohydrates. This is because coffee beans, which are used to make black coffee, are naturally low in carbs. The absence of carbohydrates in black coffee makes it an excellent choice for those who are watching their carb intake or following a specific diet plan.
Black Coffee And Carbohydrates

Black coffee is a popular choice for many people, whether it’s enjoyed in the morning as a wake-up call or sipped on throughout the day for a boost of energy. But when it comes to following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you might be wondering: does black coffee have carbs?
Nutritional Composition Of Black Coffee
Black coffee is virtually calorie-free and contains a minimal amount of macronutrients. A typical cup of black coffee (8 fluid ounces) provides:
Calories | 2 |
Protein | 0 grams |
Fat | 0 grams |
Carbohydrates | 0 grams |
Effect Of Additives In Black Coffee On Carb Content
While black coffee itself is carb-free, it’s important to note that certain additives can increase the carb content. If you prefer to enhance the flavor of your black coffee with ingredients like sugar, milk, or flavored syrups, you may add a small amount of carbohydrates to your cup.
Here is a breakdown of the approximate number of carbs commonly found in popular coffee additives:
- Sugar (1 teaspoon) – 4 grams of carbs
- Milk (1 fluid ounce) – 1 gram of carbs
- Flavored syrups (1 pump) – 5-7 grams of carbs
These carb amounts may seem small, but they can quickly add up if you’re adding multiple servings or indulging in high-carb flavored syrups. Therefore, if you’re aiming to minimize your carbohydrate intake, it’s advisable to enjoy your black coffee without any additives or opt for low-carb alternatives like sugar-free sweeteners or unsweetened nut milk.
Carbohydrate Content In Common Beverages
Black coffee is a low-carb beverage, making it an ideal choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake. With zero grams of carbohydrates, it can be enjoyed as a guilt-free option for those following a low-carb diet.

Carb Content In Different Types Of Coffee
It’s important to note that the carb content can increase when you start adding ingredients like milk, cream, or sweeteners. These additions should be accounted for if you’re watching your carb intake. Let’s take a closer look at how different types of coffee can vary in terms of their carb content:
Type of Coffee | Carbohydrate Content per Cup |
Black Coffee | 0 grams |
Regular Coffee with Milk (1 tbsp) | 1 gram |
Coffee with Cream (1 tbsp) | 0.5 grams |
Coffee with Sugar (1 tsp) | 4 grams |
Comparison To Other Popular Beverages
When comparing the carbohydrate content of coffee to other popular beverages, it’s important to note that some options can be surprisingly high in carbs. Here’s a quick overview of the carb content in 8-ounce servings of common beverages:
- Soda: 26-39 grams of carbs
- Fruit Juice: 24-36 grams of carbs
- Energy Drinks: 21-34 grams of carbs
- Flavored Iced Tea: 15-30 grams of carbs
- Black Tea: 0 grams of carbs
- Herbal Tea: 0 grams of carbs
- Water: 0 grams of carbs
Managing Carbohydrates In Black Coffee

Choosing Low-carb Coffee Options
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, it is important to choose coffee options that are low in carbs. While black coffee itself has negligible carbs, it’s essential to be mindful of the additives and sweeteners that can increase its carb content.
Effect Of Sweeteners And Creamers On Carb Content
Sweeteners and creamers can significantly impact the carb content of your beloved cup of black coffee. Many sweeteners, like sugar and syrup, are high in carbs and can quickly add up to the daily carbohydrate count. Additionally, creamers often contain hidden sugars and artificial additives that can elevate the carb content in your coffee.
If you cannot resist a touch of sweetness, natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract can be a better alternative. These options are low in carbs and provide a pleasant flavor without derailing your low-carb goals.
Another recommendation is to use unsweetened dairy or non-dairy milk as a creamer. These options are typically lower in carbs compared to flavored or sweetened creamers. Almond milk, coconut milk, or heavy cream can be great low-carb alternatives, providing richness to your black coffee without surpassing your carbohydrate limits.
Controlled Carbohydrate Intake While Enjoying Coffee

While you savor your cup of coffee, it’s crucial to maintain control over your carbohydrate intake. Here are a few simple tips to help you stay on track:
- Avoid adding unnecessary sweeteners or creamers that are high in carbs.
- Opt for low-carb sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract if you desire a touch of sweetness.
- Choose unsweetened dairy or non-dairy milk as a creamer to keep the carb count in check.
- Monitor the portion size of any sweeteners or creamers you add, as they can contribute to carb intake.
- Consider black coffee as a delicious and carb-free beverage option.
- Remember to account for the carbs in your coffee when tracking your overall carbohydrate consumption for the day.
Recommended Read: How To Reduce Carbs In Coffee
By being selective with your coffee additives and maintaining awareness of your carbohydrate intake, you can enjoy your black coffee while successfully managing your carb goals.
Conclusion
While black coffee is generally considered to be a low-calorie and carb-free beverage, it’s important to note that the final carb content may vary. The brewing method, coffee bean type, and any added ingredients can all contribute to its carb content.
It’s always recommended to check the nutritional information or consult a healthcare professional for accurate carb information. So, enjoy your black coffee, but be mindful of any additions that may increase its carb count.
A. I. Moon
A.I. Moon, an experienced SEO Pythonista, spends his days coding and developing web applications to help business owners. A passionate coffee enthusiast, he believes that drinking coffee fuels his creativity and productivity. His day isn't complete without the rich aroma and invigorating warmth of a perfectly brewed cup. This love for coffee inspired him to found EspressoRivo, a platform dedicated to sharing his coffee knowledge and fostering a community of passionate aficionados.