How to Calculate Net Carbs

Categories nutrition diet low carb health

Calculating net carbs is essential for those following a low-carb diet. To determine the net carbs in a food item, you need to consider two main factors: total carbohydrates and fiber content.

The formula for calculating net carbs is straightforward:

Net Carbs = Total Carbohydrates - Dietary Fiber - Sugar Alcohols

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check the nutrition label on the food product.
2. Identify the total carbohydrates per serving.
3. Subtract the dietary fiber from the total carbohydrates.
4. If applicable, also subtract any sugar alcohols (like erythritol) as they have minimal impact on blood sugar.

For example, if a food item has 20 grams of total carbohydrates, 5 grams of dietary fiber, and 3 grams of sugar alcohols, the calculation would be:

Net Carbs = 20g - 5g - 3g = 12g

Remember, not all sugar alcohols affect blood sugar levels equally, so it's important to understand how they impact your body.

By accurately calculating net carbs, you can better manage your carbohydrate intake and make informed dietary choices.

For more information on low-carb diets or carbohydrate counting, explore our related articles.

No related topics found.