How to Figure Net Carbs on Atkins Diet

The Atkins diet is based on reducing the consumption of carbohydrates that have a significant impact on blood sugar, such as sugar, white flour and hydrogenated oils. Although the Atkins diet is referred to as a low-carb diet, the trick to successfully following it is to distinguish the "good" carbs from the "bad." To do so, dieters count net carbs.

Instructions

1. Look at the information on the food label. Take note of the total grams of carbohydrates per serving in the selected food.

2. Look for the total grams of fiber per serving in the selected food.

3. Subtract the number of grams of fiber per serving from the total grams of carbohydrates per serving. The resulting number of grams equals the net carbs per serving.

Tips & Warnings

• To figure net carbs for fresh fruits and vegetables, or other foods that do not have nutritional labels, use a carbohydrate gram counter, such as the one on the Atkins website. Other websites that provide nutrition information on fresh foods can also provide carb and fiber values.

References

• "Atkins for Life"; Robert C. Atkins, M.D.; 2003, 2004

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Atkins Carb Counter