Total Carbs

vs

NET Carbs

We believe in tracking total carbs because simply put there is no such thing as a free lunch. All things that go into your body have an impact. Therefore we should be aware of those things. 

Total carbs: The entirety of all carbohydrates in a food regardless of structure or bodily impact.

Net carbs: All carbs absent of fiber and sugar alcohols. This is done under the belief that sugar alcohols and fiber do not impact you calorically therefore, there is no reason to track them.

Let’s look at the impact of fiber and sugar alcohols in your body.


Fiber:  

  • Feeds the gut biome

  • Can be digested (soluble/insoluble) which can influence blood sugar

  • Still has calories

  • Can cause bloat and/or constipation if eaten in excess

    Sugar Alcohols:

  • Still has calories (very few)

  • Can cause bloat

  • Can cause colon distress (constipation/diarrhea)

  • Can impact insulin levels without increasing blood sugar


    While all of these may not be enough to impact weight loss directly, they can encourage and/or discourage the sustainability of your dietary lifestyle and weight loss program. All of these things matter.

Total carbs allow for total control.

The original intent of net carbs was to encourage the consumption of vegetables. A worthwhile pursuit but psychologically speaking, NET carbs are a slippery slope. However, due to the popularity of Keto, food manufacturers often manipulate sugar alcohols and fiber to get a “low net” carb product that really is just glorified junk food. It can stimulate cravings and make you overconsume calories.

Hence we say “total carbs allow for total control.” Even if you want a treat or packaged good, total carbs keep it within a rational margin which keeps you overall on track.