Articles Index

What is the Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index is a measurement of how rapidly a carbohydrate enters your bloodstream and how high it raises your blood glucose level. Not all carbs are the same.

Are Low-Carb or No-Carb Diets OK for People with Diabetes?

It's unclear what impact a low-carb or no-carb diet will have on a person who has diabetes.

How Do I Balance My Daily Carb Intake?

Using a resource like the Diabetes Food Pyramid can help keep not only carb totals in line but also provide guidelines on healthy portions of all foods.

Why Should My Daily Carb Intake Be Consistent?

Keeping your daily intake of carbohydrates consistent helps to keep your blood sugar from going too high or too low during the day.

Why Count Carbs?

Carbohydrates make blood glucose levels go up. Keeping track of how many carbs you eat helps you figure out what your blood glucose levels will be.

How Many Grams of Carbs Equals One Carbohydrate Choice?

The usual number of grams of carbs in a serving is 15 grams. That doesn't mean that every serving is the same size. Fifteen grams of carbohydrates could be a cup of milk, a slice of white bread, two pancakes or half a banana.

How Many Carbs a Day are Right for Me?

Finding out the right amount of carbohydrates for you should be a collaborative effort between your healthcare provider, a dietitian or nutritionist, and you. One formula does not apply to all people.

How Do Carbs Affect Blood Sugar?

When you eat carbohydrates, either simple or complex, your body breaks them down into sugars, which are absorbed into the bloodstream.

What's the Difference Between Simple and Complex Carbohydrates?

Simple carbohydrates are also called simple sugars. Simple sugar can be just what the name implies, the sugar in your sugar bowl. Complex carbohydrates are also known as starches. Grains such as bread, pasta, oatmeal and rice are complex carbs. Also some vegetables like broccoli, corn and all legumes such as kidney beans and chick peas.

What is a Carbohydrate?

A carbohydrate is the most common source of energy found in food. It is broken down by digestion into glucose for use in the body. Carbohydrates are found in many different foods, such as sugars, starches and fiber.