Inquiring Kathy wants to know? How do you count your carbs? Carbs vs Net Carbs

For me counting and keeping my carbs low was key to me losing over 200 pounds years ago, key to me kicking regain's a** and feeling GREAT. I found when I didn't I would be sick, have low blood sugar attacks and didn't want to get out of bed

My big question? Do you count carbs or net carbs?

For those that don't know - In calculating net carbs, you take the total number of carbohydrates a product contains and subtract fiber and sugar alcohols because these types of carbohydrates are thought to have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

Thank you, I really appreciate your input

This was such a confusing part for me in the beginning it took a few visits/emails/calls to my Dr to really understand this. End result, I just count net carb. I have seen a mix of this on the forums. Its always interesting to see how different our Dr's programs are.

I agree and that is why I was asking... Personally I have just counted carbs. I was at the gym and they handed out some atkins protein bars. I don't usually eat those but I was hungry and saw 3 grams of carbs. I was like WOW that is low. Well when I got home and went to log it I noticed it said "net" carbs and the label said 25 carbs. Well he** that is more than I eat a day.

I like a few of the different Atkins foods. With my Dr's plan Atkins is great for net carb counting. I have used Atkins food from the start and do not see where it has slowed me down. It's only been 8 months and that could change, I'll have to watch it.

I only count carbs

Thanks Peachpie, that is what I have been doing for years but thought, am I missing something? Have I been doing it wrong?

I use total carbs... and refuse to eat protein bars because of it. Way too many carbs for me, I'd rather eat real food!

Hi Fredbear

I agree, that way you can control what you are eating. See the one time I did and look where it got me. I was like WTH?

Type I diabetic for 21 years and I count carbs. When I was taking a lot of insulin I also accounted for all carbs including fiber and sugar alcohols. It seems with most diabetics they either do or do not need to account for those things, there's no inbetween.

Hi Erin,

I was reading and researching and it does appear there is a debate even with the professional... Thanks