The number of North Carolina residents who are diagnosed with diabetes is equivalent to filling up the seats of Bank of America Stadium over 13 times.
In a healthy individual, glucose is produced during the digestion of carbohydrates, which raises blood sugar levels. This prompts the pancreas to release insulin, which absorbs glucose so the body can store it for energy. Once this occurs, blood sugar levels return to normal.
However, this process looks a lot different for those with diabetes, which is why many of these individuals count the number of carbohydrates they consume to help manage their blood sugar levels.
“Diabetes disrupts the normal functioning of insulin, a hormone crucial for glucose absorption,” explains Dr. Sharon Browning, a family medicine physician at Atrium Lake Park Family Medicine in Indian Trail, North Carolina. “In those with diabetes, the pancreas may not produce sufficient insulin or doesn’t use insulin properly. This causes glucose to accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Fortunately, insulin injections help mimic the natural process and prevent dangerous spikes in blood sugar.”
Counting carbs involves correlating the grams of carbs you eat with the number of insulin units you administer. Typically, a carb-to-insulin ratio is 1 unit for every 10 to 15 grams of carbs.
"The carb-to-insulin ratio is not a one-size-fits-all measure or an exact science," says Dr. Browning, who enjoys helping her patients with chronic medical management at the Lake Park Family Medicine office. "It differs for each person based on age, sex and level of physical activity. Your health care team can help pinpoint the best ratio for you, though it may need adjusting overtime."
Nutrition labels and online trackers are great resources to help you determine the carbohydrate content of food and drink items. It’s also best to choose foods that are considered complex carbs since they contain more fiber and slowly raise your blood sugar levels compared to simple carbs.
Above all, it's important that you never eliminate carbs from your diet because they provide energy for your body and maintain brain health. If you have concerns about what you should eat to help manage your blood sugar levels, consult with your health care provider or a registered dietitian.
Do you need help with diabetes management? Schedule an appointment with a doctor near you.
