Karen...

[ChristinaP]

Hello. Im a new member. Ive been browsing the site all night and I have to say that you seem to be the most helpful here that Ive seen so far. I have been reading so much about which carbs to count and Im so confused. I THOUGHT I was doing so well but I think that Im not losing b/c I am counting the carbs incorrectly. For instance, if a label reads:
Total Carbs: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Maltitol:9g
How many carbs do I count? And the sugar, Maltitol...do I count that? Ive gotten myself all frustrated with reading the carbs, net effective carbs, sugars to count not to count...I think Im overwhelmed. I have the 2002 Atkins book. Im trying the Induction now. I dont see anything about what Im asking here. Thank you for your time and effort. You are certainly appreciated.
Christina in TX

[Rosebud]

Hi Christina,

If you don't mind that I'm not Karen, I may be able to help. ;)

Firstly, the fibre: that can be subtracted, leaving 21g carbs (p77 DANDR).
Secondly, the maltitol. This stuff tends to be a problem. It is a "sugar alcohol" also known as a "hidden carb" - more about them in "The truth about low carb sweeteners info" to the right of your screen.
Dr A says that your body does not perceive them as carbs and that is certainly true for many people. However it's one of those YMMV (your mileage may vary) issues. Many folk here have said that when they stopped eating low carb bars (a common source of hidden carbs) their weight loss has resumed after being stalled.

So, if you assume you are not going to be affected by the maltitol, yes, you can subtract their carbs, leaving your example with 12 effective carbs.

I personally would avoud the sugar alcohols - why ask for trouble, right?

HTH?

:rose:Rosebud:rose:

[Karen]

Hello. Im a new member. Ive been browsing the site all night and I have to say that you seem to be the most helpful here that Ive seen so far.

Hmm. I think some people might take issue with that. ;) There are a lot of helpful people here that I admire.

Rosebud for example!

She is right in what she says. With carb counting, it's also the quality of the carbs and how you react to them. Have a look at the article - written by the incredibly helpful Doreen - at the top of the page under Low-Carb Tips called Sugar Alcohol.

As Rosebud pointed out, it's different with everyone. I avoid sugar alcohols because they give me gas and can trigger an addictive response.

I think it's best to low-carb "cleanly" during the beginning stages, then experiment later on when you feel like an old pro at it.

Karen

[ChristinaP]

Thank you both so much for the replies to my post. I really do appreciate your time. I will read the info you suggested, and thank you. Ive read so much in the last week that now Im confused but feeling better now...thanks again.
Christina in TX