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Carbohydrate Counting

MNT strategy for diabetes that matches insulin dose or oral medication to grams of carbohydrate consumed per meal.

Basic carb counting uses consistent carbohydrate amounts per meal. Advanced carb counting uses an insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio (e.g., 1 unit per 10 g CHO) plus a correction factor for hyperglycemia. Requires nutrition label literacy, portion measurement, and understanding of how protein, fat, and fiber affect post-meal glucose response. Cornerstone of intensive insulin therapy.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 30

    Basic carb counting uses consistent carbohydrate amounts per meal. Advanced carb counting uses an insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio (e.g., 1 unit per 10 g CHO) plus a correction factor for hyperglycemia. Requires nutrition label literacy, portion measurement, and understanding of how protein, fat, and fiber affect post-meal glucose response. Cornerstone of intensive insulin therapy.

Related terms

Glycemic Index, Insulin-to-Carbohydrate Ratio, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus