Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel or energy for our bodies. We need carbohydrate foods every day. However, too much of them can lead to elevated blood glucose levels. How much is too much? Well, each person's carbohydrate needs are different and depends on their daily calorie requirements.

 

 Where do carbohydrates come from? Many people think carbohydrates only come from sugar and sweets. This is a misconception. Carbohydrates are naturally found in many foods we eat every day including: milk, fruit, vegetables, and starchy foods. All carbohydrate foods will affect your blood sugar level because your body converts all carbohydrate foods into glucose. This doesn't mean we shouldn't eat fruits and vegetables. But, it does mean that over-eating such things as starchy foods, fruits, fruit juice, and milk can have the same effect on your blood glucose level as eating too much candy, cake, pie or ice cream.

 

 The best thing you can do is follow this simple rule for your main meals of the day. Imagine your dinner plate is divided into 4 sections. One section should be filled with lean meat, fish, or poultry. Another section should be filled with a starch or grain food. And the last two sections, fill with vegetables. This will help to reduce your carbohydrate amounts and provide you with the fuel you need each day.