The more “complex” a carbohydrate is, the more resistant it is to being broken down by the enzyme “amylase” and the longer it takes to get into your blood. Complex carbs include the healthier kinds of carbs that also have much more fiber, vitamins and minerals in them, like oatmeal, sweet potatoes and brown rice.
Ginger: And my ice cream? No good…because it’s simple?
ANDREW
Well, in moderation it’s okay, but not too often, as you already know. The important thing is just making sure you take your insulin, too. If you’re going to eat sweets, take your insulin.
Ginger: Of course! But…so even if I take my insulin, what is the difference in my body between simple carbohydrates and complex carbs?
ANDREW
The “simple” carbohydrates are broken down much more quickly and get into your bloodstream really fast. That’s why it’s good to have something like juice, fruit, or even Skittles when your blood sugar is really low because it won’t take as long to get into your bloodstream! I’m not recommending a regular diet of Skittles and Sour Patch Kids, but if your blood sugar is 55 and you’ve got a choice between oatmeal and candy, fifteen grams of simple carbohydrates to treat most low blood sugars is the best way to go.
Ginger: Okay, that makes a lot of sense. Just gotta make sure we don’t eat the whole pack of Skittles…because that’s a lot more than 15 grams of carbs. Anyway, thanks, Andrew!
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