Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect every organ system in the body. According to MayoClinic.com, diabetics have too much glucose circulating in the bloodstream because the pancreas cannot make enough insulin or the insulin being produced isn't effective. The function of insulin is to help move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells where it is used for energy. Glucose is stored in the liver, which releases it as needed. Carbohydrates are converted to glucose during digestion. Presently, there is no cure for diabetes, but counting carbohydrates is one way to help keep diabetes under control.
Step 1
Make an appointment with a physician or a registered dietician to discuss a diet plan for controlling diabetes. They will set up a meal plan to include an adequate amount of carbohydrates.
Step 2
Learn which foods contain carbohydrates. According to the American Diabetes Association, or ADA, carbohydrate-containing foods include breads, pasta, rice, cereals, milk, fruits, broccoli, carrots, cookies, cakes and starchy vegetables, such as potatoes and peas.
Step 3
Calculate carbohydrate content for all foods eaten daily. The American Diabetes Association publishes a guidebook, "ADA Complete Guide to Carb Counting" by Hope S. Warshaw and Karmen Kulkarni. "The Calorie King Calorie, Fat and Carbohydrate Counter 2010" by Allen Borushek is another resource. A carbohydrate counter is available for viewing online at The-Atkins-Diet.info site. While shopping or preparing meals, keep the guidebook handy to look up carbohydrate values for foods being bought or prepared. Keep track of carbohydrates consumed daily in a notebook.
Step 4
Plan all meals. It is best to have a well-thought out meal plan that includes healthy amount of carbohydrates, protein and fats. A well-balanced meal for a diabetic also includes 6 oz. of lean meat for protein. Fats should be limited and saturated fats, such as butter, cream and bacon, should be avoided.
Step 5
Measure and weigh foods before preparing them. Clinical Diabetes states that measuring and weighing also helps to reinforce carbohydrate values. Carbohydrates are measured in grams and one carbohydrate serving is equal to 15g of carbohydrates.
Step 6
Take blood glucose readings daily and record them in the journal. It is especially important for those taking insulin to count carbohydrates, as the amount of insulin taken is typically based on the amount of carbohydrates consumed.
Step 7
Read package labels. Check the serving size listed on the package and how many grams of carbohydrate there are per serving. Diabetes.com recommends using carbohydrate information on the package labels to plan snacks and meals.
Tips and Warnings
- Include fruits, vegetables and dairy in daily meal plans to maintain a well-balanced diet.
- Avoid carbohydrates containing large amounts of saturated fats, trans fats or salt. Diabetics are already at risk for developing heart disease and high blood pressure, and those fats and sodium only act to increase the risk.
Things You'll Need
- Notebook and pen
- Carbohydrate counting book
- Measuring cup
- Food scale
