ABOUT LOW GI

WHAT IS THE GLYCEMIC INDEX (GI)?

The glycemic index is a scale that rates carbohydrate foods on how quickly they raise blood glucose/sugar levels after eating.
Foods that are high GI are are digested and absorbed quickly which results in fluctuations in blood glucose/sugar levels.
Foods that are low GI are digested and absorbed at a slower rate and therefore result in a gradual rise in blood glucose/sugar levels.

WHY FOLLOW A LOW GI DIET?

Eating foods that are Low GI has been shown to improve the blood glucose/sugar levels of people suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It also assists in weight loss and weight control as low GI foods control appetite and delay feelings of hunger.
The slow releasing of energy provided by low GI foods also reduces the risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses that are related the high blood glucose/sugar fluctuations.

FOODS THAT HAVE LOW GI

Examples of foods that have a low GI are:

• multi-grain bread
• low-fat milk and yoghurt
• sweet potato
• legumes
• most fruits
• pasta

Examples of foods that have a high GI are:

• white bread
• jelly lollies
• potato
• sugar

Remember, just because a food has a low GI does not mean you should gorge yourself on it. The same applies for restricting high GI foods. Everything in moderation.

For more advice on low GI foods, low GI recipes and products visit Healthy Food For Life.