SHOULD PEOPLE WITH DIABETES ELIMINATE CARBOHYDRATE FROM THEIR DIET?

This article is expertly advised by Ms. Nguyen Phuong Anh - MSc, Nutritional Specialist Doctor at CarePlus International Clinics. 

Many diabetic patients are afraid of hyperglycemia, so they choose to eliminate carbohydrate-rich foods (rice/noodles/potatoes) from their daily diet. Is this true or not? 

Carbohydrates are nutrients in foods such as rice, vermicelli, cakes, noodles, potatoes, sugar, honey, and fruits. 

When food enters the gastrointestinal tract, carbohydrates are broken down into smaller molecules called glucose. Then, glucose will be absorbed into the blood, directly affecting blood sugar levels. 

Why SHOULD people with diabetes NOT eliminate carbohydrates from their daily diet? 

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the body to function, especially brain cells, which almost exclusively use energy from this source. Usually, 50-60% of total daily energy is provided from carbohydrates. 

When lacking carbohydrates, the diet must increase foods rich in protein (protein) and lipids (fat), and the body must switch to using protein and lipids as energy instead of carbohydrates. This can increase metabolic disorders such as increased LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, increased blood ketones, and increased uric acid... 

Foods rich in carbohydrates are also a source of other essential nutrients, such as vitamin B1. 

Therefore, instead of cutting out carbohydrates, people with diabetes need a nutritionist to determine their carbohydrate needs and choose foods that contain carbohydrates that are good for the body. 

To understand more about your health condition and prevent diabetes early, do not hesitate to contact CarePlus to receive advice from a team of doctors on appropriate nutrition and exercise. 

The Nutrition examination package at CarePlus is designed with a full range of items to help accurately assess body condition. Through anthropometric assessment, dietary assessment, and clinical examination, the Doctor will advise individualized nutrition and an appropriate exercise regimen for each customer.