Information on Net Carbs and How They Are Calculated

Your body needs carbohydrates each day because these macronutrients act as a source of energy. For instance, carbohydrates help fuel the kidneys and the brain. These macronutrients are primarily found in vegetables, processed foods, and legumes.

There are two types of carbohydrates: simple and complex. Your body easily digests simple carbohydrates, such as what would come from a low net carb chocolate bar from Amber Lyn Chocolates. Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, are not easily digested by the body.

When it comes to how your body uses these carbohydrates, things become more complicated because of net carbs. Below is a discussion on this term and how net carbs are calculated.

Net Carbs

Net carbs generally refers to all the carbohydrates that are digested by your body. These carbs can be simple or complex, depending on what you eat. Carbs that are not digested or partially digested by the body should not be included when calculating net carbs. These carbs include sugar-alcohols and fiber.

It is important to calculate net carbs, as doing so will help prevent you from consuming a carbohydrate-intensive diet. Such a diet can cause unwanted weight gain and high blood pressure. Calculating net carbs will also help you ensure that you consume the right amount of carbohydrates that your body needs.

How to Calculate Net Carbs

You can easily calculate net carbs using the following equation:

Net Carbs = Total Carbohydrates – (Sugar Alcohols + Fiber)

For example, if a particular carbohydrate-rich food has 30 grams of total carbs, 4 grams of sugar alcohols, and 3 grams of fiber, its net carbs will be 23 grams:

30 grams total carbs – (4 grams sugar alcohols + 3 grams fiber) = 23 grams net carbs

Carbohydrates act as a source of energy for the body. However, you need to ensure that you do not consume increased amounts of carbohydrates as they can cause high blood sugar. Calculating the net carbs in any carbohydrate-rich food will help you track your carbohydrate intake to ensure your diet is balanced.