Glycemic Index Essay

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The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of the effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar (glucose) levels. The amount of carbohydrates consumed also affects blood glucose levels and insulin responses. The GI is computed in two ways due to the fact that there are two standards of comparison. The glycemic load of a food is calculated by multiplying the glycemic index by the amount of carbohydrate in grams provided by a food and dividing the total by 100. After a high-glycemic load meal, blood glucose levels rise more rapidly and insulin demand is greater than after a low-glycemic load meal. In some studies, high glycemic loads have been associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The lower a food 's glycemic index or glycemic load, the less it affects blood sugar and insulin levels.
The glycemic index indicates how rapidly a carbohydrate is digested and released as glucose (sugar) into the blood stream. A food with a high GI raises blood sugar more than a food with a medium to low GI. But the glycemic index does not take into account the amount of carbohydrate in a food. …show more content…

Everyone can benefit by eating a balanced diet of protein and fat, and foods that are lower on the GL and GI index. Foods with a lower GL and GI typically are high in fiber and nutrients and sustain your energy better throughout the day. Foods with a glycemic load (GL) under 10 are considered low-GL foods and have little impact on your blood sugar; between 10 and 20 moderate-GL foods with moderate impact on blood sugar, and above 20 high-GL foods that can cause blood sugar spikes. The GI ranks specific carbohydrates from zero to 100, based on the rate in which they affect your blood sugar levels. A glycemic index of 1 to 55 is low, 56 to 69 is medium, and 70 to 100 is high. These high-ranking foods should be

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