Low Glycemic Lifestyle - What is the Glycemic Index?

A Low Glycemic Lifestyle has been shown to have many benefits. But so much of the information about the Glycemic Index and advantages of a Low Glycemic Lifestyle is overly technical--here's a simple explanation of what the Glycemic Index is and why it matters.

What is the Glycemic Index?

The Glycemic Index (or GI) measures the effect of carbohydrates on blood sugar. During digestion, some carbohydrates are broken down rapidly and release glucose into the bloodstream quickly. These are "high GI" foods. Other carbohydrates break down slowly and release glucose into the bloodstream gradually. These are "low GI" foods.

Why Does the Glycemic Index Matter?

The GI matters because of the response our bodies have when we eat high GI food. When we eat food with a high Glycemic Index, our blood sugar rises rapidly. Our bodies produce insulin to counteract the spike, which makes our blood sugar drop. When our blood sugar drops, we feel hungry again and often crave another high glycemic food to counteract the blood sugar drop.

In contrast, when we eat low glycemic foods, the carbohydrates are broken down more gradually and released into our bloodstream at a slow, steady rate. Our blood sugar rises but does not spike rapidly. Insulin is still produced to counteract the rise, but it does not cause a crash. We do not get hungry again as quickly and when we do, we don't crave the high glycemic foods.

Not to mention, low GI foods are usually healthier in general! Low GI foods include most vegetables and fruits, as well as whole grains. The same foods our moms and doctors tell us we should eat more of!

High GI foods could include most processed foods and foods that might fit into the category of "junk food." It's the stuff we know isn't really good for us but love to eat anyway.

Benjamin J. Marshall is a recovering sugar addict who has experienced the advantages of a Low Glycemic Lifestyle personally. Weight loss, more energy, and improved health in general are some of the benefits he has seen. Get more information about a Low Glycemic Lifestyle and follow Benjamin's personal journey to adopt a Low Glycemic Lifestyle at http://www.LowGlycemicLifestyle.com.

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