Carbohydrates and Diabetes

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients the body needs to function effectively. As
evidenced by the major and growing diabetes epidemic in this country and the established link
between carbohydrate and diabetes, there is a need for nutrition education, however, there is
confusion about optimal amounts and types of carbohydrates. In this discussion, you will
explore the role of carbohydrate on the body’s functioning and the connection of carbohydrate
to diabetes. What are the implications for your future work as a nutrition educator?
Your task: To start, make sure you have read all of the assigned readings for this week and
spent some time reviewing the resources provided in the Resources section. Then, respond to
the following questions in a 500 word narrative:
• Think about the AMDR for carbohydrate and the popularity of low carbohydrate diets for
weight loss and health. Based on this week’s readings, are low carbohydrate diets an effective
way to approach weight loss or manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes? In your answer,
thoroughly explain your reasoning and support this using credible resources. Focus on the
consequences low carbohydrate diets have on the body.
• When finding outside articles and information about low carbohydrate diets, it is important to
consider the RDA for carbohydrate intake. What is considered low-carbohydrate and what
range should be consumed for overall health?
• Thinking about the AMDR for carbohydrate, who benefits from eating at the higher end of the
range and who benefits from eating at the lower end? Explain your reasoning.