Food & eating well

Batch cooking for busy weeks

Enjoy your favourite takeaway-style meals at home with simple swaps that support your blood sugar and save money.
  • 6 min read
  • July 11, 2026
  • Checked for accuracy
Key points
  • Carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy for your body.
  • Different types of carbs affect your blood sugar in different ways.
  • Choose higher fibre, wholegrain carbs more often.
  • It's not about cutting carbs out, it's about balance.

What are carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates (or carbs) are nutrients found in many foods and drinks. Your body breaks them down into glucose, which gives you energy.

Carbs are not all the same. Some are better for your blood sugar and overall health than others.

The main types of carbohydrate

Sugars
Found in foods like fruit, milk, honey and sweets.
Starches
Found in foods like potatoes, rise, Oots, bread and pasta.
Fibre
Found in foods like vegetables, beans, wholegrains and fruit.

Watch: how metformin works

A short video explaining how metformin helps lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
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Watch: how to build a balanced fakeaway bowl

A quick guide to building a delicious fakeaway that supports your blood sugar.
Play video

Watch: carbohydrates explained

A short video to help you understand the different types of carbs and how they affect blood sugar.
Play video
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Helpful resources

Fakeaway recipe collection

PDF Guide

Batch cooking meal planner

Printable PDF

Healthy swaps cheat sheet

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