Patient was educated on advantages of complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates as follows:
- Complex carbohydrates are richer in fiber and made up of longer chains of sugar molecules, compared to simple carbohydrates.
- The breakdown of these complex carbohydrates into simpler units during metabolism consumes time and so, complex carbohydrates are slower to digest.
- Simple carbohydrates are quick and easy to digest and so, contribute to the sugar rush and sudden spike in blood glucose. Sudden spike in blood sugars can lead to disorderly insulin secretion, resulting in impaired blood sugar control in diabetics. The slow digestion of complex carbohydrates results in slow rise of blood glucose and prevents sugar rush and sudden spike in blood glucose. This can contribute to improved control upon insulin secretion, resulting in better blood sugar control in diabetics.
- The fiber content of complex carbohydrates also helps with slowing absorption of glucose, thus preventing sudden increase in blood sugar. Slow and controlled increase in blood glucose with complex carbohydrates can contribute to preventing sudden dangerous spike in blood sugars and improved control upon insulin secretion, resulting in better blood sugar control in diabetics.
- The fiber content of complex carbohydrates also helps with slowing absorption of fats and thus contribute to lowering the lipid levels, especially in individuals with history of elevated blood cholesterol and other unhealthy fats.
- The fiber content of complex carbohydrates can add to the daily fiber requirements helpful to promote intestinal health and prevent development of slowed bowels & constipation.
- Also, as complex carbohydrates are slow to digest, they act as longer lasting energy source, be filling for longer duration, and so, contribute to reduced intake. This reduced intake with complex carbohydrates can help with achieve weight loss goals in obese individuals.
- Reduced intake and weight loss can also help with reduced insulin requirements and improved blood sugar control in individuals with history of poorly controlled blood sugars & diabetes.
