As we close out National Diabetes Month, our partner Marcus Harris, a registered dietitian, brings us valuable insights into carbohydrate counting and balanced nutrition for diabetic patients. Complementing our Sugar-Savvy series, this post aims to simplify carb counting and emphasize the importance of a well-rounded diet in diabetes management.

The Basics of Carbohydrate Counting

 Marcus Harris explains:

"Foods containing carbohydrates can affect your blood sugar levels all day long. Mastering the skill of counting carbohydrates can assist in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Understanding which foods contain carbohydrates is essential for achieving success. Utilizing a carbohydrate chart to plan meals and snacks can alleviate the need to constantly remember. Don't forget to incorporate foods rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats alongside your carbohydrate choices."

Here's a handy table showing common carbohydrate foods, each containing about 15 grams of carbohydrate:

Foods that Contain Carbohydrates

Grains     

• 1 slice bread (1 oz), 1/3 cup cooked pasta or rice, ½ cup cooked cereal 
• 1 small tortilla (6-inch size)
• 2 taco shells (5-inch size) 

Fruit     

• 1 small fresh fruit (¾ to 1 cup), ½ medium banana, 1 cup melon or berries 
• ½ medium banana 
• 17 small grapes (3 ounces) 

Starchy Vegetables

• ½ cup cooked beans, peas, corn, potatoes/sweet potatoes
• ¼ large baked potato (3 ounces) 
• 1 cup acorn or butternut squash 

Snack Foods

• 3 to 6 crackers
• 8 potato chips or 13 tortilla chips
• 3 cups popped popcorn

Dairy     

• ¾ cup (6 ounces) nonfat plain yogurt, or yogurt with sugar-free sweetener 
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup plain rice, soy coconut or flavored almond milk 

Sweets and Desserts

• ½ cup ice cream or frozen yogurt
• 1 tablespoon jam, jelly, pancake syrup, table sugar, or honey
• 2 tablespoons light pancake syrup 

Note: "Occasionally, you may need to estimate the amount of carbohydrates if you are uncertain about the exact recipe. A cup of mixed foods, such as soups, could contain 1 to 2 carbohydrate servings, while some casseroles may have 2 or more servings of carbohydrates. Foods with fewer than 20 calories per serving can be considered as "free" foods. Consider 1 cup of raw vegetables or ½ cup of cooked non-starchy vegetables as "free" foods. If you consume 3 or more servings in one meal, then count them as 1 carbohydrate serving."

Foods with Minimal or No Carbohydrates

"While the body can transform all food into glucose, not all foods contain carbohydrates. Therefore, when tallying carbohydrates, you can typically omit meats, dairy, water, coffee, and tea. Vegetables with minimal or no carbohydrates comprise green beans, cauliflower, tomatoes, and onions."

Counting carbohydrates can be a valuable tool for planning meals and managing weight. The chart below provides a general guide to carbohydrate portions for individuals looking to regulate blood sugar and achieve better overall weight control.

❏ Women 2 – 3 carb servings (to lose weight) 3 – 4 carb servings (to maintain Weight)

❏ Men 3 – 4 carb servings (to lose weight) 4 – 5 carb servings (to maintain Weight)

Monitoring your blood glucose post-meals will provide valuable insight into whether adjustments to the timing, type, or quantity of carbohydrate servings in your meal plan are necessary. Attain and maintain a healthy body weight by striking a balance between your food consumption and physical activity.

Additional Insights and Tips

1. Low-Glycemic Foods: Choose foods with a low glycemic index for better blood sugar control.

2. Meal Planning: Prepare balanced meals ahead and understand portion sizes.

3. Fiber Importance: Include high-fiber foods to slow down sugar absorption.

Counting carbohydrates is a vital skill in diabetes management. By combining Marcus Harris's expert advice with these additional insights, we aim to empower you with knowledge and practical tips. Remember, small dietary changes can lead to significant improvements in managing diabetes.