Carbs or No Carbs? That is the Question

August 19, 2014 12:18 pm
carbohydrates

By Liran Julia Grunhaus

You have all heard it before- should you stay away from carbohydrates or eat them in moderation? People with Diabetes must closely control their blood sugar levels, and eating carbohydrates can directly affect those levels (carbohydrates are used in the body for energy in the form of blood glucose- AKA blood sugar). Many people with Diabetes, in particular those who are insulin dependent, find that their blood sugar is much easier to control if they limit the carbohydrates in their diet. Others claim that as long as you eat a balanced diet, you are more likely to stick to that diet and keep your blood sugar levels in check through medication and exercise.

The source of the heated debate lies in the fact that scientific research hasn’t given conclusive answers. There is research that shows that low-carbohydrate diets are very successful in improving A1C levels, as well as lowering triglyceride levels and raising HDL levels (“good” cholesterol). These go along with weight loss in many cases. Low-carbohydrate dieters have been shown to have less risk for hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, because they need less insulin to manage their blood sugar. Low carb enthusiasts emphasize that as carbohydrates are our body’s main source of glucose- they are logically the first target.

On the other hand, low-carb diet critics say that that type of diet is very hard to stick to. They say that the improvement in A1C levels is a direct result of weight loss. Research supporting this approach has demonstrated that eating a moderate-carb, high-fiber diet may improve post meal sugar levels and lower the risk for cardiovascular disease. In addition, many foods that contain carbohydrates contain many other important nutritious elements. Vegetables and fruits contain carbs, but are a very important source for vitamins and minerals; dairy products contain calcium and grains such as lentils have high levels of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. Lastly, a low-carb diet is usually high in fat, and eating higher quantities of saturated fat can increase insulin resistance.

So, who is right? There is no right answer, and different research groups have found evidence to support both theories. Currently, most people with Diabetes are encouraged to eat a healthy and balanced diet of lean meats and dairy, whole grains, healthy fat, fruits and vegetables. The American Diabetes Association, the American Heart Association and the American Dietetic Association all recommend a more moderate carbohydrate approach of approximately 40-45% of the daily calorie intake.

But these associations also stress that there is no one “right” diet. Every person is different- and what manages to control one person’s blood glucose levels won’t necessarily do the same for someone else. Professionals recommend speaking to a dietician or nutritionist to help construct a nutrition plan that is tailored to one’s needs and lifestyle. Sometimes a bit of trial and error is needed to learn how your body reacts to different foods. Make sure to check your levels with your blood glucose monitor often when you make changes in your diet. It is very important to have your own personalized diabetes management tool, like Dario, to give you an indication of what works for you and gives actionable insights and reports.

What is clear is that healthy foods, portion control and scheduling are necessary to manage you blood glucose levels. If you stray from your prescribed diet, you run the risk of fluctuating blood sugar levels and more serious complications.

Dr. Paul Rosman, DO FACP FACE FACOI, on Dario’s Scientific Advisory Board, commented: “I believe that people with diabetes must start with their basic food choices and modify them to meet the needs both in serving their likes and recognizing their dislikes, as well as serving the needs of their diabetes. This balance makes the percentage of carbohydrates negotiable. The real issue is paying attention and being self-aware of what you put in your mouth. Yes, counting and limiting carbohydrates is important, but sustaining how you do it is what counts in the end.”

Dr. Paul Rosman has served roles in industry, academia and non-profit leadership. He was Former Senior Medical Advisor at Eli Lilly & Company, has held teaching positions at Ohio University and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, as well as served as President or Chair of American Diabetes Association, Ohio Chapter, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Ohio River Chapter, and the Ohio Diabetes Prevention and Control Program at Ohio Department of Health.

Your Dario Smart Meter helps you manage your carbs easily and efficiently.