The Glycemic Index is a measure of how quickly carbohydrates are digested and absorbed
The glycemic index (GI) of a carbohydrate, describes the effect of the carbohydrate on blood sugar levels after you have eaten it. You might also be interested in reading about the Insulin Index. We have also listed a selection of books available from Amazon on the Glycemic index and GI diets that have all received rave reviews by customers who have bought them.
Low glycemic index carbohydrates – cause only small fluctuations in blood glucose levels, as they are broken down slowly by the body, and absorbed slowly into the blood.
High glycemic index carbohydrates – cause bigger swings in blood glucose levels as they are broken down rapidly and absorbed quickly into the blood.
Diabetics must restrict their carbohydrate intact to those with a low glycemic index. These slowly release sugars into the blood stream, and don’t produce big spikes like high glycemic index carbs.
Low glycemic index foods are a benefit for a number of reasons to everybody, not just diabetics. Some of these benefits include:
- weight management
- they increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin
- reduce the risk of heart disease
- reduce cholesterol levels
- reduce sugar cravings, and help you feel full for longer
Quick tips for eating a healthier low glycemic diet:
- Eat grainy bread.
- Eat cereals based on oats and bran.
- Eat fresh fruit and vegetables (except potatoes and watermelon).
- Eat plenty of salads.
- Eat integral rice and wholemeal pasta.
- Eat legumes and pulses.
- Eat fish, eggs, meat.
- Eat nuts.
Foods with a high glycemic index include:
- potatoes
- watermelon
- some white rice
- white bread
- sugary breakfast cereals
- sweets and puddings
Diet & Lifestyle – Is it the answer to curing Diabetes?
Are doctors telling diabetics the whole truth? Is diabetes really incurable as we are being told? A growing number of health experts are have concluded that many cases of diabetes are curable. This isn’t some wonder drug or herbal potion to cure or reverse diabetes, but a more natural cure related to the diet and lifestyle we live. For full details, please read our section that explores the possibilities of a natural cure for diabetes.