Question:
Can someone tell me how to calculate

Can someone tell me how to calculate "net effective carbs" in a product?    — sweetmana (posted on September 17, 2003)

September 17, 2003
You can check out the Atkins website and they break it down for you. www.atkins.com
   — dimpkd

September 17, 2003
Not sure why you are asking but just so you know "net carbs" applies to diabetics and people with normal stomachs and digestive systems. To an RNY a carb is a carb is a carb. Don't matter the color or type of them, our bodies see them all the same. So don't think that you aren't getting the effect of all the carbs on your body.
   — zoedogcbr

September 17, 2003
To calculate net carbs you subtract dietary fiber and sugar alcohol from the total carbohydrates. I don't want to start a heated debate, but I'm not sure what Chris D. means by "a carb is a carb is a carb". I was always under the impression that there are big differences between carbs and their effect on our bodies. I don't know that my body is effected differently by carbs because I had a RNY. Net Carbs are carbs that have a minimal effect on our blood glucose levels. Certain carbohydrates stimulate fat-storage while others do not and carbs that stimulate fat storage also elevate blood sugar and insulin levels. A carb with a low glycemic index like certain fruits, veggies, beans, and whole grain products do not overly elevate blood glucose like processed, refined carbs like breads, rice, and donuts. This would be the same as thinking a fat is a fat is a fat. There are big differences between trans fats, saturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and monounsaturated fats. Hence, a big difference between a handful of nuts and a handful of M&M's, which both have a lot of fat. FYI: one daily serving of a handful of nuts can increase metabolism as much as 45%, which equals a loss of 14 pounds in 4 months without even trying.
   — Kristen S.

September 17, 2003
My nutritionist said to subtract fiber and sugar from the carb count to get the real carb amount.
   — TheresaC

September 18, 2003
Kristin did a good job explaining how types of carbs are processed differently in our bodies and how it relates to fat storage vs. fat usage. Having had WLS does not change this insulin/glucogon reaction--we're no different from other people in this regard. You can subtract fiber and sugar ALCOHOLS, but not regular sugar from the carb count. It's not always easy to do this, however. The label will list the amount of fiber, but not necessarily the amount of sugar alcohols. Also, be wary of too many sugar alcohols in a product. They can lead to painful gas and diarrhea.
   — Vespa R.

September 18, 2003
Re: sugar alcohols on labels. I think the FDA has now mandated that sugar alcohols be listed under carb content on food labels. This might not show up for awhile but keep a look out for it.
   — lizinPA