Low-Glycemic Index Foods - Benefits and Recommendations

Low-glycemic index foods are carbohydrates that are digested and absorbed slowly, causing a slower rise in blood sugar levels.
Category
Nutrition
Where to get
Available in grocery stores and health food stores
Applicable for
Nutrients
fiber, protein
Benefits
blood sugar control, sustained energy
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Jane Cox

Low-Glycemic Index Foods FAQ


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What are low glycemic foods?

Low glycemic foods are those that have a low value on the glycemic index. Studies show that these foods can be good for you in many ways. Low glycemic foods help with weight loss and blood sugar. This may help lower the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. What Is the Glycemic Index?

Why do some foods have a lower glycemic index?

Certain kinds of foods fall into these categories — for example, Dr. Williams notes that foods higher in fat and protein “tend to be absorbed slower, and therefore have a lower glycemic index. But the glycemic index isn’t necessarily a measure that’s easy to use as a nutrition guide, the way that you can with calories.

What foods have a high glycemic index?

Moderate glycemic index (GI 56 to 69): White and sweet potatoes, corn, white rice, couscous, breakfast cereals such as Cream of Wheat and Mini Wheats. High glycemic index (GI of 70 or higher): White bread, rice cakes, most crackers, bagels, cakes, doughnuts, croissants, most packaged breakfast cereals.

What is a low glycemic index diet?

A low-glycemic index (low-GI) diet is an eating plan based on how foods affect blood sugar level, also called blood glucose level. The glycemic index ranks food on a scale from 0 to 100. The low end of the scale has foods that have little effect on blood sugar levels. The high end of the scale has foods with a big effect on blood sugar levels.

What foods are low glycemic?

Foods such as bread, cereals, and sweet treats are usually high GI. Dairy products, beans, and many fruits and vegetables are lower GI. Someone should plan a low glycemic diet as part of an overall healthful eating plan that includes essential nutrients. A person could consult a nutrition professional to help with this.

Which food has the highest glycemic index?

They also indicate that white bread is the reference point for the highest GI. The glycemic index can help people to choose healthful foods that are lower in sugar and carbohydrates. This approach might help people who want to lose weight or manage conditions such as diabetes.

Low-Glycemic Index Foods References

If you want to know more about Low-Glycemic Index Foods, consider exploring links below:

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