Tomato Carbs: Exact Counts by Type & Serving Size

A medium-sized tomato (about 123g) contains approximately 4.8 grams of total carbohydrates, with 2.6 grams of net carbs after fiber subtraction. This makes tomatoes an excellent low-carb option for keto diets, diabetes management, and general healthy eating.

Understanding Tomato Carbohydrates: What You Need to Know

When tracking your carbohydrate intake, knowing the exact carb count in common foods like tomatoes is essential. Whether you're following a keto diet, managing diabetes, or simply monitoring your nutrition, tomatoes offer a flavorful option with minimal impact on your daily carb allowance.

Carb Content by Tomato Type and Serving Size

The carbohydrate content in tomatoes varies slightly depending on the variety and portion size. Here's a detailed breakdown based on USDA FoodData Central measurements:

Tomato Type	Serving Size	Total Carbs	Dietary Fiber	Net Carbs
Medium Raw Tomato	123g (1 whole)	4.8g	1.5g	3.3g
Roma Tomato	148g (1 whole)	6.0g	2.0g	4.0g
Cherry Tomatoes	149g (about 10)	7.4g	2.2g	5.2g
Tomato Juice (unsalted)	248g (1 cup)	10.0g	1.7g	8.3g
Sun-Dried Tomatoes	40g (1/4 cup)	21.0g	5.0g	16.0g

Source: USDA FoodData Central

Why Tomato Carbs Matter for Your Diet

Tomatoes are often misunderstood in low-carb dietary contexts. Many people assume they're high in sugar and carbs, but the reality is quite different. The natural sugars in tomatoes contribute to their flavor profile while keeping the overall carb count remarkably low.

For those following a ketogenic diet where daily carb intake typically ranges from 20-50 grams, a medium tomato represents only about 10-25% of your daily allowance. This makes tomatoes one of the most versatile vegetables for adding flavor without significantly impacting your carb count.

Practical Applications for Different Dietary Needs

Keto Diet Considerations: With approximately 3.3g net carbs per medium tomato, they fit comfortably within most keto frameworks. For strict keto (under 20g carbs daily), you can enjoy 3-4 medium tomatoes while staying within limits.

Diabetes Management: The American Diabetes Association considers tomatoes a non-starchy vegetable with a low glycemic index. Their fiber content helps moderate blood sugar response, making them an excellent choice for blood sugar control.

Weight Management: At just 22 calories per medium tomato with substantial water content (95%), tomatoes provide volume and satisfaction with minimal caloric impact—ideal for weight loss or maintenance.

Common Misconceptions About Tomato Carbs

Many people mistakenly believe tomatoes are high in sugar due to their slightly sweet taste. However, a medium tomato contains only about 2.8 grams of natural sugars—less than half the sugar content of an apple of similar size.

Another common misunderstanding involves processed tomato products. While fresh tomatoes are low-carb, tomato sauces and ketchup often contain added sugars that significantly increase carb content. Always check labels when using processed tomato products if you're monitoring carb intake.

Maximizing Tomato Benefits in Your Meal Planning

Understanding serving sizes is crucial for accurate carb counting. When preparing meals:

• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially when starting a new diet
• Pair tomatoes with healthy fats like olive oil to enhance nutrient absorption
• Consider the timing—tomatoes earlier in the day provide sustained energy without blood sugar spikes
• Be mindful of preparation methods—grilling concentrates flavors without adding carbs, while frying adds significant calories

For those following strict low-carb protocols, cherry tomatoes offer slightly higher carb density per volume compared to larger varieties, so adjust portions accordingly. Sun-dried tomatoes, while nutrient-dense, contain concentrated carbs and should be used sparingly in low-carb diets.

Tomato Nutrition Beyond Carbs

While carb content is important, tomatoes offer numerous other nutritional benefits that make them valuable for overall health:

• Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced heart disease risk
• Excellent source of vitamin C (28% of daily value per medium tomato)
• Contains potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure
• Provides vitamin K1 for blood clotting and bone health

These additional nutrients work synergistically with the modest carb content to create a nutritionally balanced food that supports multiple aspects of health beyond just carbohydrate management.

How many net carbs are in a medium tomato?

A medium tomato (about 123g) contains approximately 4.8 grams of total carbohydrates and 1.5 grams of dietary fiber, resulting in 3.3 grams of net carbs.

Are tomatoes suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, tomatoes are generally keto-friendly. A medium tomato contains only about 3.3g net carbs, making it possible to include in moderate amounts while staying within typical keto carb limits of 20-50g daily.

Do different tomato varieties have different carb counts?

Yes, carb content varies by type. Cherry tomatoes have slightly higher carb density per volume (5.2g net carbs per 10 tomatoes), while Roma tomatoes contain about 4.0g net carbs each. Sun-dried tomatoes are significantly higher in carbs due to water removal.

How do tomatoes affect blood sugar levels?

Tomatoes have a low glycemic index (around 15) and glycemic load of 3, meaning they have minimal impact on blood sugar. Their fiber content helps moderate glucose absorption, making them suitable for diabetes management.

Can I eat tomatoes on a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. With only 3.3g net carbs per medium tomato, they're an excellent choice for low-carb diets. Just be mindful of portion sizes and avoid processed tomato products with added sugars, which significantly increase carb content.