Good Carbohydrates and Bad Carbohydrates: Diet Tips for Diabetic Patients

A lot of diabetic diets and diabetic meal planning centre on carbohydrate intake – the amount you can have and when you should have them.  This is because they play such a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels.  Too many carbohydrates or the wrong kind can cause high blood sugar levels or hyperglycaemia.  Not enough carbohydrates can cause low blood sugar levels or hypoglycaemia.

It is recommended that carbohydrates make up about 40% of your daily calories, but not all carbohydrates are created equal. 

Here are some carbohydrate choices that should be made frequently:

• Whole grain cereals
• Whole wheat breads and rolls
• Brown rice
• Whole wheat crackers
• Raw or lightly steamed fruits and vegetables
• Whole wheat rotis or wraps

Carbohydrate choices that should be made less often:

• Potato chips
• White bread
• White rice
• Processed foods
• Cookies
• Easy to eat snacks

Carbohydrates are an essential part of every diet but make sure you are including the right kinds in yours.  Good carbohydrates will fill you up and not create a sudden spike in your blood sugars.  Bad carbohydrates are usually over-processed, create high blood sugars, create obesity and are high in sodium. As carbohydrates are going to make up almost half of your daily food choices it is important to fill your body with high-quality choices.  Choose ones that will give you energy and not cause you to gain weight.  The less processed or refined a carbohydrate is, the better it is going to be for you.

Check your blood glucose levels with Control D regularly to manage your Diabetes