Low-Carb Snacks and Blood Sugar: T1D Dietitian’s Advice
Managing Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes can be challenging, especially when it comes to choosing the right foods.
Many people with diabetes are drawn to low-carb or keto diets to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. However, not all “low-carb” snacks are created equal, and some can cause unexpected spikes in blood sugar. Here’s a story that illustrates this important point.
The Snack That Wasn't What It Seemed
A patient with Type 1 diabetes decided to try a new snack marketed as low-carb and keto-friendly. The snack seemed like the perfect choice, as it was labeled with fiber and low in carbs. At first, the individual’s blood sugar started at a reasonable level, but not long after eating the snack, the blood sugar suddenly spiked significantly, causing concern. This rapid increase in blood sugar was unexpected, especially given the snack's “low-carb” claims.
Why This Happens
This is a common issue for people with diabetes who rely on processed foods labeled as "low-carb." While these products may seem like a good choice for managing blood sugar, they often contain fibers that act more like sugars in the body. For individuals working with a Type 1 diabetes dietitian or a Type 2 diabetes dietitian, it’s important to understand that the net carb calculation on the packaging isn’t always accurate. Subtracting fiber from the total carbs to get "net carbs" can be misleading, especially when the fiber is absorbed quickly and spikes blood sugar.
For those managing Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, it's crucial to be cautious when consuming foods marketed as “low-carb” or “keto-friendly.” These products may appear to be a good choice for stabilizing blood sugar but they can cause unpredictable blood sugar spikes. This can be especially frustrating for people trying to stay in range, as these spikes can be hard to correct.
The Best Approach: Real Food
The lesson here is clear: when it comes to managing blood sugar, real food is always the best choice. Diabetes educators and diabetes dietitians often recommend whole, natural foods. These whole foods are less likely to cause blood sugar fluctuations and help provide more consistent blood sugar control.
For those living with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, avoiding overly processed foods that claim to be “low-carb” is a smart strategy. Instead, choosing foods in their most natural form can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Understanding how processed, low-carb foods affect blood sugar is crucial for anyone managing Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes dietitians emphasize the importance of making informed food choices, focusing on real, whole foods that are less likely to cause unexpected blood sugar spikes. By paying attention to the ingredients and how they impact blood glucose, individuals with diabetes can achieve better blood sugar control and improve overall health.
