Carbohydrates are the source from which your body takes the majority of its energy. During the process of digestion, sugar from simple carbohydrates and starches from complex carbohydrates, are broken down into glucose, otherwise known as blood sugar. If you consume too many foods that are rich in high levels of carbohydrates within a certain amount of time, then you may find that your levels of blood sugar become too high, leading to significant problems for diabetics. Obviously, monitoring carbohydrate intake for this reason is key to controlling your blood sugar, and it will be part of the plan outlined by your dietitian or doctor.
Using a diabetic carb counter chart can help you keep track of what's going on in your body. While carbohydrates are found in many different foods, the healthiest options generally include vegetables, whole-grains, legumes, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and beans.
How Much Carbs Do You Need?
Determining how much carbohydrates you need may involve the use of a diabetic carb counter chart, as well as various other techniques. For instance, the level of carbohydrates your body needs is likely to change depending on your weight, age, and levels of activity. However in most cases, carbs will make up approximately half of what you drink and eat over the course of a single week. To ensure good health, these carbs should come from fruits, dairy foods, and starchy carbohydrates.
Keep in mind, when using your diabetic carb counter chart, that every type of carbohydrate is capable of impacting your blood glucose levels. This means that being aware of exactly how much you consume can help you to achieve better control over your glucose levels. Try working with your healthcare provider or dietitian to help discover the perfect balance for you.
How Carbohydrates Affect People With Diabetes
We've already mentioned that carbohydrates in all of their different forms eventually convert into glucose. In a person who doesn't suffer from diabetes, the body will produce insulin to help manage the glucose that is allowed to enter the blood stream, meaning that carbohydrate-containing foods and drinks are not dangerous. Unfortunately, for people with diabetes, the same thing does not occur, as the body doesn't produce insulin in the same way as other people.
Using a diabetic carb counter chart to carefully control the amount of carbohydrates that you consume, and therefore the level of glucose within your system at any given time can be a good way to help manage your diabetes and keep a handle on your condition. For most people, the care that will need to be taken in dealing with diabetes and carbohydrates may differ according to personal circumstances and the severity of their situation.
Typically, it is a good idea to speak to a doctor, dietitian, or health expert before adjusting your dietary preferences when you are managing diabetes and other health issues that are related to diet. This should ensure that you make nutrition choices that are the most beneficial to your health, and reduce your chances of struggling from diabetic issues.