What are Net Carbs, and Why Does It Matter?

When talking about carbohydrates and their impact on our health, the term "Net Carbs" often comes up, especially when referencing low-carb diets and their variants (e.g., keto). But what are Net Carbs, and why does it matter when you’re planning your meals for the week?

First, The Big Three: Breaking Down Carbohydrates 

Before we get into Net Carbs, let’s take a more general look at carbohydrates. Not all carbohydrates are the same—they can be sorted into three main categories: 

1. Sugars—Simple carbohydrates, also known as simple sugars, include glucose, fructose, and sucrose. These are quickly absorbed by the body.
2. Starches—Complex carbohydrates composed of many sugar molecules bonded together and found in foods like pasta, bread, rice, and vegetables. They take longer to break down in the body, providing a more gradual release of longer-lasting energy.
3. Fiber—Another type of complex carbohydrate that we find in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Unlike other carbohydrates, fiber is not digested by the body, so it doesn’t actually provide calories. But it is important for digestive health. 

What are Net Carbs? 

Net Carbs are calculated by subtracting the grams of fiber and sugar alcohols from the Total Carbs of a food or beverage. At Carbe Diem, we use this term based on the principle that not all carbs are created equal. Some carbs are absorbed by the body and produce a glycemic response, while other carbs do not.

In defining Net Carbs, we follow the highest standards in only subtracting carbs that have been scientifically shown to have an insignificant glycemic impact.

Total Carbs encompass all the carbohydrate content in a food, including fiber, sugars, and sugar alcohols. However, as we mentioned, not all these components affect the body in the same way. 

Here’s a quick formula to explain Net Carbs vs. Total Carbs: 

Net Carbs = Total Carbs - Fiber - Sugar Alcohols

For example, if a serving of food contains 30 grams of total carbohydrates, 10 grams of fiber, and 5 grams of sugar alcohols, the Net Carbs of the food would be:

30g (Total Carbs) - 10g (fiber) - 5g (sugar alcohols) = 15g (Net Carbs)

This calculation can be useful to consumers as it helps them understand the amount of carbohydrates that are absorbed by the body (i.e., unlike other carbohydrates, fiber and many sugar alcohols are not absorbed by the body). 

Carbe Diem Pasta: A Net Carb-Friendly Choice

Why should you care about Net Carbs? Well, you’ve just learned that not all carbs are created equal. If you cut pasta out of your life because you’ve been wary of too many carbs or calories, we’re here to bring pasta back to the dinner table! 

Here at Carbe Diem, we understand the importance of a good meal without compromises. Our pasta has 55% less Net Carbs (and ~45% less calories!) than the leading traditional pasta brand while still providing the delightful texture and flavor you know and love.

Enjoy a delicious meal that helps support your individual journey. Shop our pasta to find your favorite shape, and check out our recipes for mealtime inspiration.