In the past few years we have been forced to learn a new term. Glycemic Index. But many people still don’t know what that means. We know we don’t want to eat foods with a high GI, but why not. What is the Glycemic Index and what does it do?
The following definition is the best one I have found to stop the confusion about the GI of foods.
“The glycemic index is a measure of how a given food affects blood-glucose levels, with each food being assigned a numbered rating. The lower the rating, the slower the absorption and digestion process, which provides a more gradual, healthier infusion of sugars into the bloodstream. On the other hand, a high rating means that blood-glucose levels are increased quickly, which stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin to drop blood-sugar levels. These rapid fluctuations of blood-sugar levels are not healthy because of the stress they place on the body.” (excerpt from an article from the healing daily website, 2007)
To find out which foods are high GI and which are low, it may take some homework. As a rule, foods that combine protein and fiber with naturally occurring sugars and avoid refined sugars and honey tend to be lower. Refined sugar, fructose and even honey have a much higher GI and can cause a spike in insulin levels.
Being aware of the GI can help you balance what foods you eat together for a balance in the overall glycemic index of your diet.
As a Weight Watcher leader and ambassador, I get excited about teaching people how to eat healthy. I've found a simple term that gets the point across in food choices. Eat like you live in the Garden of Eden. Those pure foods are the foods that will nourish your body. Then add a few sunshine foods so you don't feel deprived. :-) The Garden of Eden foods are those that fit well in the Glycemic Indes too.
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