Simple Sugar Versus Complex Sugar

poustotah

Okay, I am pregnant - 27 weeks now. And I've been diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes - AGAIN! After my last pregnancy, I lost 90 pounds, I eat right and none of that mattered soooo, here we go. Anyway, my question has to do with sugar. Obviously, I cut out all of my simple sugars (as many as I can). I use stevia in my coffee, I eat all whole grains, etc. At lunch, I have a smoothie. I typically use the yoplait smoothie (a whole bag) and I mix in 2 scoops of whey protein. So there's like 30mg of sugar in that. I try not to go over 40mg for the whole day and I very rarely do. Now my husband mentioned that since the smoothie is primarily fruit (which is a complex sugar), that I should count ALL of that sugar. I however, think he's lost his mind.

So who's right? And will counting sugar help to keep the diabetes in check? I'm guessing no.

poustotah

Anyone got anything???

bmreed0920

You are both right. Even if its a complex carb (sugar) you still need to count it. But you also need to watch your fiber. Eating a high fiber diet will help control your sugar. Look at NET CARBS. Net carbs = Total Carbs - Fiber. That will give you a realistic number for your intake of carbs. Refined white sugar or processed sugar is good to stay away from. Fruits and whole grains are great. Hope this helps.

Mayor_West

I wouldn't be surprised if the smoothie mix does contain refined sugars, even if it does include fruit. This is also common in yogurt as well.

Smoothies can be a great snack, provided the nutrition is there- check to make sure that most of the ingredients are natural. An alternative to the pre-made mix would be to simply add the whey, plain yogurt, fruit and ice.

SueInAz

Most of those pre-packaged smoothies do contain added sugars. I agree with the last poster in regards to making your own rather than using the pre-packaged type. I usually freeze my smoothie fruits so I don't need to use ice, and they keep longer. When I can find them on sale (berry season is nearly upon us!) I buy several pints while they are cheap and freeze them right away. You can also find bags of frozen berries and other fruit at a reasonable price at places like Costco.