Health Tips of the Week

There have been very few studies done on the Ugandan foods. But most of the carbs we eat come from starchy foods, legumes, fruits and milk. Vegetables contain fewer amounts of carbs while amounts of carbs in meats are not significan

Let’s talk about Sugars & Carbs (45Grams accepted level)

When considering how much sugar you should consume during meals consider this: you should also consider the number of carbohydrates (carbs) you take in as well. Reason: Carbs will be processed by your body into sugar, later on. So add the number of grams of sugar plus the carbs to better identify food products that are more suited for your diet.

It is clear that carbohydrate has the largest impact on blood glucose concentrations. There have been very few studies done on the Ugandan foods. But most of the carbs we eat come from starchy foods, legumes, fruits and milk. Vegetables contain fewer amounts of carbs while amounts of carbs in meats are not significant

In the context of western world we will take an example, say the candy bar that you have purchased has 30 grams of sugar and 35 grams of carbs. That equals 65.(That’s not counting all the ‘added’ sugar and sugar substitutes that may also be included). That is over the generally accepted level for a diabetic of 45 total grams, per serving. So, you may want to select a candy bar that has less sugar and carbs or, do not eat it at all. Follow this process for other foods as well. This would be good pattern to follow for a pre-diabetic or anybody.

Mr. Sebbo says, when considering beans, great northern beans and pinto beans are high in fiber and protein (both good for your health) and low carbs and no sugar.  Plus, they have almost no ‘trans’ fats, or added sugars and no sugar substitutes). “So, please examine food labels and do your homework on good, healthy foods to purchase. Monitor your sugar and carbs intake especially. Doing this will also help you lose a few pounds, if that is something you are considering”.