6 mistakes diabetics often make when eating low carb

Not monitoring blood sugar, drinking little water, eating an inappropriate amount of carbs... are mistakes that diabetics on a low-carb diet easily make.

Low carb diets are used by many diabetics to control and improve their condition. This diet limits carbohydrates (sugars and starches), and includes protein-rich foods to help stabilize blood sugar, lose weight, and improve cholesterol levels. People with type 2 diabetes who follow this diet also reduce triglycerides and high blood pressure. Below are common mistakes that diabetics make when eating low carb.

Eating the wrong amount of carbs

Each person needs a different amount of carbs, depending on their physical condition. Patients should consider factors such as health status, blood sugar control, medication use, eating preferences... to balance the amount of carbs. People can consult a nutritionist or doctor for specific instructions on the appropriate amount of carbs.

No blood sugar monitoring

A low-carb diet can help control blood sugar levels, but it is not the first-line solution for long-term blood sugar stability. Diabetics should regularly monitor their blood sugar to adjust their carb intake to avoid increasing or decreasing blood sugar levels. Monitoring blood sugar also helps adjust meal portions, carb intake, and medication dosage. Patients should monitor their blood sugar regularly, such as before and after meals, after exercise, etc., to avoid sudden increases or decreases.

Ignore carb quality

Some people tend to focus on counting total carbs without paying attention to the quality of carbs. This affects the amount of nutrients they take in. People with diabetes should balance their carbs according to their nutritional needs, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and increasing healthy fats.

The low-carb diet prioritizes fat, protein and fiber. Photo: Freepik — The low carb diet prioritizes fat, protein and fiber. Photo: *Freepik*

Cut a lot of carbs at once

You should not reduce carbs too much in one meal but need to distribute the amount consumed evenly throughout the day. This is beneficial for the goal of stabilizing blood sugar, maintaining energy levels for activities. People with type 2 diabetes should have 30-45g of carbs per meal (including snacks).

Skip the fiber

Fiber is very important for people with diabetes. It helps lower blood pressure, improve insulin, stabilize blood sugar, and keep you full for a long time. Many people who follow this diet tend to balance fat and protein, causing the body to not receive enough fiber. The diet should have low to moderate carbs but lots of fiber from green leafy vegetables, berries, beans, nuts, etc.

According to the US Department of Agriculture , the recommended daily intake of fiber for men and women under 50 years old is 25g, 38g respectively, and for those over 50 years old is 21g and 30g.

Drink too little water

Low-carb diets can increase the risk of dehydration, causing electrolyte imbalances. If carbs are reduced, water reserves are also reduced, causing the body to produce less insulin. The kidneys remove both water and sodium (salt) from the body. Adults with diabetes should drink 2-2.5 liters of water per day.

Mai Cat (According to Everyday Health )

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