Glossary

Plain-English definitions for the terms that come up when you count carbs — for diabetes, GLP-1 medications, keto, and beyond.

A1C (HbA1c)Three-month average blood sugar — the headline diabetes lab. Basal-bolusA two-part insulin regimen: long-acting background plus mealtime doses. CarbohydrateThe macronutrient that affects blood glucose most directly. Carb-to-insulin ratioHow many grams of carb one unit of rapid-acting insulin covers. Dietary fiberA carbohydrate that humans don't digest — doesn't raise blood sugar. GLP-1 receptor agonistThe drug class behind Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. Glycemic indexA 0–100 score for how fast a food raises blood glucose. HypoglycemiaLow blood sugar — usually under 70 mg/dL. Net carbsTotal carbs minus fiber (and sometimes sugar alcohols). PostprandialAfter-meal — the window when food affects glucose most. Sugar alcoholSweeteners that taste like sugar but don't fully raise glucose. Time in range (TIR)The percentage of a day spent in the target glucose range.