Q&A

My most recent question from foodpicker.org...

Q: I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes last month. I’m having difficulty understanding how many carbs and sugar I can have each day. I’m finding that nearly everything contains carbs and sugar! Can you help me with this?

A: When diagnosed with diabetes it can definitely be overwhelming. I strongly advise you to see a Registered Dietitian (RD) and/or your primary care physician for additional information however, I can steer you in the right direction for now.

One that has diabetes must remember that you need carbohydrates just as much as someone without diabetes. For diabetics, it is important that you are evenly distributing your carbohydrates throughout the day. For instance, X amount of carbohydrate grams at breakfast, lunch and dinner and then a couple between meal times for snacks. This will help keep your blood sugars level all day and avoid the "roller coaster ride" and side effects associated with it. 

The current recommended daily allowance (RDA) for the macronutrient, carbohydrates (glucose), is 130 grams per day. This is based on what you body needs to function properly. Depending on your height, weight, age and activity level will change this.  For now focus on carbohydrates coming from whole grains, fresh fruit, starchy vegetables (corn, potatoes, etc) and some dairy instead of carbohydrates from cookies, cakes and donuts. These "healthier" carbohydrate sources will hit your blood stream slower and leave you feeling satisfied longer [as opposed to your cookies]. Again this will help you maintain optimal glucose readings and really just make you feel better all together.