Carbohydrate Calculator for Diabetics
Here’s a simple table outlining different types of carbohydrates that can be beneficial or should be consumed cautiously by diabetics. It distinguishes between low-glycemic and high-glycemic foods, highlighting better options for managing blood sugar.
| Carbohydrate Source | Type | Glycemic Index (GI) | Recommended for Diabetics | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Grains (e.g., brown rice, oats) | Complex Carbohydrate | Low to Medium (GI: 55-69) | Yes | Provides steady energy, high in fiber |
| Sweet Potatoes | Complex Carbohydrate | Medium (GI: 44-60) | Yes | Fiber-rich, contains important vitamins |
| Non-Starchy Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, spinach) | Complex Carbohydrate | Low (GI: < 20) | Yes | Very low impact on blood sugar, nutrient-dense |
| Legumes (e.g., lentils, beans) | Complex Carbohydrate | Low to Medium (GI: 28-55) | Yes | High in fiber and protein, great for blood sugar control |
| Fruits (e.g., apples, berries) | Simple Carbohydrate | Low to Medium (GI: 30-55) | Yes (in moderation) | Choose low-GI fruits; fiber content helps slow glucose absorption |
| Whole Wheat Bread | Complex Carbohydrate | Medium (GI: 50-70) | Yes (in moderation) | Choose whole grain, high-fiber varieties |
| White Bread / Refined Grains | Simple Carbohydrate | High (GI: 70+) | No | Causes rapid spikes in blood sugar |
| Sugary Snacks (e.g., candy, cakes) | Simple Carbohydrate | Very High (GI: 80+) | No | High in refined sugars, rapid glucose spikes, little nutritional value |
| Sugary Drinks (e.g., soda, juice) | Simple Carbohydrate | Very High (GI: 85+) | No | High in sugar, quickly absorbed, leads to blood sugar spikes |
| Low-GI Whole Fruits (e.g., cherries, grapefruits) | Simple Carbohydrate | Low (GI: < 35) | Yes | Natural sugar in fruit paired with fiber slows glucose release |
This table can help diabetics make more informed choices regarding carbohydrate intake, focusing on complex carbs and low-glycemic index foods.