How Many Carbohydrates Should A Person With Diabetes Eat Each Day?

Author: Janis Roszler, RD, CDE, LD
Source: Diabetes Positive! Magazine

Carbohydrates are extremely important and should not be eliminated or severly restricted from a person’s diet. They provide energy to the cells of the body, especially to the brain, which uses carbohydrate as its main energy source. Most people with diabetes should consume about 130 grams of carbohydrate each day. Some suggest a higher intake of between 60-90 grams per meal for men and 45-75 grams per meal for women. Sources of carbohydrate include starches, grains, fruits, vegetables, milk and yogurt.

*The carbohydrate levels listed here are general guidelines only and may not be the same as those recommended by your dietitian or diabetes educator.  Carbohydrate needs vary according to gender, age, activity level and health status.