Frequently Asked Questions

Now that I have diabetes are all carbs bad for you?

No, carbohydrates are not bad for you but having too much or too little can effect your blood sugars. Your brain needs a constant supply of glucose. There are some very nutrient dense carbs that are good for you in the right amounts such as whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, starchy vegetables, and milk. In fact people with diabetes can include foods with sugar now and count the carbohydrates as research indicates the body sees a carb as a carb. It is either a nutritious carb or a non-nutritious carb. The hard part is working in concentrated sweets like a 2 inch frosted cake or brownie are equal to 2 carb choices or 30 grams. Sadly, many would like to eat a half a dozen brownies at a time which would equal 180 grams of carbohydrate!

I've heard it is a good idea to be a "little sweet" or keep a higher blood sugar - is that true?

Research has shown that it is best for people to be well controlled. That level should be defined by your doctor. Those people who have had a lot of hypoglycemia episodes, or who have hypoglycemia unawareness, or kids that are very physically active might be given slightly higher guidelines. Check with your doctor.

If you would like to submit a question, e-mail Donna Sivertsen, RD, LDN, CDE at sivertsend@genesishealth.com or visit us on Facebook and YouTube.