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Q
How do carb
exchanges work?
A Carb exchanges make counting
carbs simpler. One carb exchange,
made up of sugar + starches =
15g carbs (fibre is excluded as
we can’t digest it). Most people
need to aim for one to two carb
exchanges in snacks, and one
to four in a main meal. Your
diabetes team will be able to
suggest the appropriate number
of carb exchanges for you and
help you match the insulin dose
(if you take it) you require to
maintain good BGLs.Q
Is ‘natural sugar’
a healthier option?
A Often products are
promoted as containing
‘natural’ or ‘unrefined’ sugar,
and while this may seem
better, your body is unlikely
to know the difference.
Whether it comes from
cane, honey or another
source, added sugar
increases the total carbs
of a food. So one type
isn’t notably healthier.Q
How do I know what’s
OK and what’s not?
A Processed foods can be high
in added sugars (think soft drinks
and sweet snacks), but sugar
also exists naturally in fruit and
milk. It’s important to enjoy
these foods as part of a healthy
diet, as they contain essential
nutrients. So, rather than
cutting them out, aim to reduce
your processed sugar intake.Q
So I can have sugar?
A Yes! It’s important to
consume a balanced diet that
includes fruit and milk. Small
amounts of processed food – a
slice of cake or a biscuit – can be
eaten occasionally, but it’s wise to
discuss treats with your dietitian.
If you take insulin or certain
medications to manage diabetes,
sugar can be a lifesaver. It’s
absorbed rapidly which is ideal
for raising BGLs if you have
a hypoglycaemic event (BGLs
under 4mmol/L). It’s a good idea
to keep a ‘hypo pack’ containing
around 30g of carbs, such as five
jelly beans, plus a juice popper. ■You may be aware these products contain added sugar, but do you know how much?SNEAKY ADDED SUGAR
1 tub fruit
yoghurt
Total sugar
26g (6
teaspoons)600ml
commercial
iced tea
Total sugar
32g (8
teaspoons)1 slice
banana
bread
Total sugar
18g (4.5
teaspoons)500mL
commercial
iced coffee
Total sugar
56g (13
teaspoons)diabetic living JULY/AUGUST 2017 101NEED TO know