by Randa Morris

Created on: April 14, 2010

Insulin is a chemical substance produced naturally by the pancreas. It is used by the body to turn sugars into energy. Diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas fails to produce the needed amount of insulin to keep sugar levels regulated in the blood stream. For those with diabetes monitoring the amount of sugar consumed is an important factor in maintaining healthy insulin and sugar levels in the body.

Almost all foods affect insulin levels to some extent. Knowing whether a food is  high or low in carbohydrates can help a person with diabetes maintain better control over insulin levels, resulting in better blood sugar levels.    

Starches

Starches, found in foods like pasta and rice, are converted to sugar in the body after they are consumed. Cereals, breads, and white potatoes (in any form) also contain high amounts of starch. White pasta and white rice have a greater impact on blood sugar than the whole grain and whole wheat varieties. All types of starches, however, are considered high carb foods. Insulin dependant diabetics need to monitor the number of carbohydrates they eat, and adjust the amount of insulin they receive to "cover" starchy foods.

Sugars 

High fructose corn syrup, dextrin or dextrose, fructose, syrup, dehydrated cane juice... these are just some of the names that manufacturers use which really mean "sugar".  Foods with added sugar create a greater need for insulin in the body.  A healthy pancreas can produce enough insulin to regulate these sugars in the body, once they are digested. For those with diabetes it is important to limit the amount of these foods, to maintain healthy levels of sugar within the blood stream.

Vegetables

Many vegetables contain natural sugar and starch. While these foods are low in calories, they still have an impact on the level of insulin needed by the body to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.  Root vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, contain more starch than other vegetables. Legumes, such as beans and peas, are also high in natural starches. Leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and spinach contain almost no carbs and are considered "free foods" for diabetics. Onions, peppers, and most types of mushrooms are also very low in carbohydrates.

Fruits

Fruits and fruit juices can be high in natural sugars.  Additionally, many fruit juice varieties sold on the market

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