What Are Net Carbs?

Dietary fiber is a carbohydrate that can't be digested, so eating dietary fiber doesn't increase blood sugar levels.

There is no legal or regulated definition for net carbs. My definition of net carbs only includes the carbs that impact blood sugar. Since the term "net carbs" is not regulated by the FDA, calculations can vary by company. Some companies don't even include sugar or alcohol in their net carbs, which I think is rather ridiculous.

Dietary fiber is a prebiotic and can feed beneficial bacteria. Fiber can also be converted by bacteria into short chain fats that can be used as fuel a clean burning fuel instead of burning carbs. Burning carbs produces about 30 to 40% more free radicals, as compared to burning fats. Burning carbs increases oxidative stress, as well as free radicals and can prematurely age you.

Free radicals can damage mitochondrial DNA, disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain and damage cell membranes.

I am not a big fan of obsessively counting net carbs, but I am a big fan of a mild ketogenic diet with a high intake of healthy fats and plenty of fresh produce with a low glycemic index.

If you have any health issues, talk to your doctor as far as what diet is best for your given situation.

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