How much carbohydrate should the average person consume per day?
Linda: Individuals vary and therefore can differ in terms of how much carbohydrate each optimally needs on a daily basis. For most people, an ideal amount of carbohydrate is at least one-half of the day’s total calorie intake, or between 50% and 60% of our daily energy needs. Individuals with special needs or a chronic condition such as type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance might benefit from a more individualized plan with a lower carbohydrate recommendation. The National Academy of Sciences recommends keeping carbohydrate intake above 130 grams per day, the minimum amount of glucose utilized by the brain. In choosing carbohydrate-rich foods, it’s best to include a wide variety of foods containing starch and natural sugar, such as whole grains, cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Special attention should be given to choosing foods high in fiber and reducing intake of foods with added sugars. Q: Are carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables created equal? Darcie: Ye
