Thanks for dropping by the ChipMonk Baking blog! This week we are talking about some of the cons to starting a keto diet, so let’s get started!

How to Count Carbs on Keto

Net carbs are a term commonly used in the context of low-carbohydrate diets, such as the ketogenic (keto) diet. In simple terms, net carbs refer to the total amount of carbohydrates in a food item that can be absorbed and metabolized by the body, minus the fiber and sugar alcohols that are not fully digested. This is an important distinction for those following a keto diet, as the goal is to limit the intake of carbohydrates in order to achieve a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy instead of glucose.

Calculating net carbs is relatively simple. To do so, you start with the total amount of carbohydrates listed on the food label, and then subtract the amount of fiber and sugar alcohols.

For example, if a food item contains 20 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, and 2 grams of sugar alcohols, the net carbs would be 13 grams (20 - 5 - 2 = 13).

The reason fiber and sugar alcohols are subtracted from the total carbohydrates is that they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels and insulin response. Fiber is not digestible by the body and does not contribute to glycemic load, while sugar alcohols are partially digested and absorbed more slowly than regular sugar, resulting in a lower glycemic response.

For someone following a keto diet, net carbs are an important consideration because the goal is to keep carbohydrate intake low enough to maintain a state of ketosis. Most people following a keto diet aim to consume between 20-50 grams of net carbs per day, although the exact amount may vary depending on individual needs and goals.

By limiting net carb intake, the body is forced to use fat as its primary fuel source, resulting in weight loss and other potential health benefits such as improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, and increased mental clarity. However, it's important to note that not all carbs are created equal, and the quality and source of carbohydrates can also play a role in overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, net carbs refer to the total amount of carbohydrates in a food item that can be absorbed and metabolized by the body, minus the fiber and sugar alcohols. For someone following a keto diet, calculating net carbs is an important part of managing carbohydrate intake and maintaining a state of ketosis. However, it's important to also consider the quality and source of carbohydrates for overall health and well-being.

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