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Carbohydrate Foods

Overview

One serving of carbohydrate food has about 15 grams of carbohydrates. Typically if a food has 8 to 22 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it is considered to be 1 serving of carbohydrates.

Foods that contain carbohydrates are grouped into the following categories. The carbohydrate content is listed in grams (g). If you eat a larger portion, count it as more than one serving.

The carbohydrate content of sweets varies according to the ingredients. Talk with a registered dietitian about how to work desserts and other sugary foods into your meal plan.

Carbohydrate foods

Type of food

Grams (g) per serving

One serving equals:

Bread, cereal, rice, pasta, beans

15

  • 1 slice bread (1 oz)
  • 1/4 bagel
  • 3/4 cup dry cereal
  • 1/2 cup cooked cereal
  • 1/3 cup cooked rice or pasta

Starchy vegetables

15

  • 1/2 cup cooked beans, lentils, or peas
  • 1/2 cup cooked corn
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes

Fruits

15

  • 1 small apple or orange
  • 1/2 banana
  • 1/2 cup chopped, cooked, or canned fruit
  • 1/2 cup fruit juice
  • 2 Tbsp dried fruit

Milk and yogurt

15

  • 1 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup (6 oz) plain yogurt

Non-starchy vegetables

5

  • 1 cup raw vegetables
  • 1/2 cup cooked vegetables
  • 1/2 cup vegetable juice

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Current as of: October 7, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.