Carbohydrates (carbs, for short) are the starches and sugars in foods such as grains, fruit, milk products, and sweets. Your body uses carbs for energy, but they raise your blood sugar higher and faster than any other kind of food. So if you have diabetes, it’s important to watch your portion sizes and get most of your carbs from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk, and yogurt.
When managing your blood sugar, it’s important to find the right portions of foods with carbs. Counting carbs is one way to create meals and snacks that will help you stay in range. Food labels list the amount of carbs in grams (g).
Generally, people need 45 to 60 grams of carbs in each meal for energy, but it depends on how your body handles carbs. Work with your dietitian or other healthcare professional for the amount that’s right for you.
1/2 banana, 1 small apple or orange, 5 whole wheat crackers and 1 piece of string cheese
Healthful eating for diabetes is healthful eating for the whole family
Enjoy regular meals
½ of the plate vegetables
¼ of the plate grains & starches
¼ of the plate protein
A portion of fruit
A portion of dairy
If your test result 1-2 hours after a meal is more than 3.0 mmol/L higher than your before-meal result, next time try eating a smaller portion of carbs.
Always follow your healthcare professional’s recommendations for testing.
Diabetes Canada. https://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/healthy-living-resources/diet-nutrition/basic-meal-planning Accessed Jan. 10, 2018.
NACO/OTB/1117/0780
