Carbohydrate foods are the best energy source for your body. When they are digested they break down to form glucose in the bloodstream. If you eat regular meals and spread your carbohydrate foods evenly throughout the day, you will help maintain your energy levels without causing large rises in your blood glucose levels.
All carbohydrate foods are digested to produce glucose. The amount of carbohydrate you eat will affect how high your blood glucose levels rise after a meal.
Carbohydrate counting is used when on insulin pump therapy and also for those using a Basal Bolus type insulin regime. Knowing the amount of carbohydrates to be eaten in a meal will then determine the amount of insulin required to be taken.