What is theGlycemic Index?

For the past few years I have heard a lot about the Glycemic Index. I know that it is good for you to eat low glycemic food, but how and what exactly is this glycemic index?

The Glycemic Index is a measure of the effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels after digestion. Carbohydrates can either break down quickly or slowly. The quicker the breakdown of a carbohydrate the more glucose is released at one time, causing a spike in blood sugar, followed by a crash in your blood sugar. This leaves people feeling sluggish, tired and hungry. Carbohydrates that breakdown slowly release glucose gradually into the blood stream which leaves you feeling fuller and more energized, and does not cause that sugar crash and burn feeling!

The Glycemic Index is a scale of 0 - 100 that rates food based on how quickly it breaks down after consumption. Foods that cause glucose to be released slow and gradually have a low Glycemic Index of 0-55. Food that is considered to be on the high end of the Glycemic index have a number of 70 or higher.

What are the Benefits of the Low Glycemic Index Diet?

• Low GI diets help you manage and regulate your blood sugar level.
• Low GI diets help increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin.
• Eating complex (low GI) carbohydrates can reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Low GI carbs help you manage your hunger and keep you feeling fuller longer.
• A low GI carb diet can help prolong your physical endurance.
• Complex carbohydrates are best for refueling your body after exercise.

Here are some sites to visit for a Glycemic Index Food Chart:
1. High, Medium and Low Glycemic Food Chart
2. Glycemic Index, Carbohydrate and Fat
3. The South beach diet Low Glycemic Index