Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which conclusion is incorrect if a patient considers a low glycemic index food with low sugar and high fiber as an ideal choice?

1. Amount of fiber in this food is not high enough to discount from total carbs

2. Total sugar is not important because the starches rapidly convert to glucose as well

3. Even though the food may be low GI, moderation and tracking of all carbs is still needed

4. The patient is correct; the combination of low sugar, low GI, and high fiber makes this an ideal food choice in any amount

The correct answer is: The patient is correct; the combination of low sugar, low GI, and high fiber makes this an ideal food choice in any amount

The assertion that the combination of low sugar, low GI, and high fiber makes this an ideal food choice in any amount is incorrect because it overlooks the principle of moderation in carbohydrate intake. While low glycemic index foods can have benefits when managing blood sugar levels, consuming them in excessive amounts can still lead to increased blood glucose levels. Even foods considered healthy can contribute to overall carbohydrate intake, which is crucial for diabetes management. Tracking total carbohydrate intake, including sugars and starches (even those with low glycemic indices), is essential to maintain stable blood glucose levels. Moderation ensures that the balance of nutrients is maintained and helps prevent spikes in blood sugar, highlighting the importance of managing portion sizes regardless of the food's profile. In contrast, the other conclusions reflect important considerations in diabetes management. The amount of fiber must be substantial to meaningfully impact the total carbohydrate count, and the conversion of starches to glucose reinforces the necessity of evaluating the overall carbohydrate content rather than just focusing on individual components like sugars.