What Is the Glycemic Index?
The glycemic index or GI is a measure of how fast the body breaks down food into glucose (blood sugar). This measurement is important for energy because the faster a food breaks down into glucose, the faster the rise in blood sugar levels. This causes the pancreas to work harder by secreting insulin to drive excess glucose into storage in the liver and muscles as fat. Having too much insulin in the body can lead to chronic diseases, such as heart disease. The glycemic index is classified into three classes, low GI, medium GI and high GI. Foods with low GI are mostly fruits and vegetables. Food with medium GI are mostly whole wheat products, such as wheat bread and brown rice. High GI foods are usually processed food, such as junk food and fast food. The lower the GI the healthier the food is. This is especially important for people with diabetes because low GI food can prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
Low GI value food (good for you)
- Cherries
- Apple
- Strawberries
- Oatmeal
- Broccoli/Cabbage/Lettuce
- Mushrooms/Onions/Red Peppers
- Green Peas
- Barley
- Brown Rice
High GI value Food (bad for you)
- Rice Crackers
- Jelly Beans
- Pretzel
- Doughnut
- Baked Potato
- Rice (white, instant)
- Tofu Frozen Dessert
- Boiled Potato
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Hello energy and health fanatics, independent thinkers, truth seekers and freedom lovers! My name is Pao L. Chang and I’m the author/founder of EnergyFanatics.com. Ever since graduating from high school, I noticed that my energy level was not as high as it used to be. While in college, I decided to educate myself about energy, health, wellness, and explore the mystery of alternative medicine and the power of spiritual healing. This journey taught me many things...
