| Through his researches and studies, Dr David Jenkins discovered the effect of carbohydrate-rich foods in persons who have diabetes. He found evidence that it was actually starchy foods not sugary foods, which were responsible in making blood sugar levels, go up high. In 1981, Dr. Jenkins created the Glycaemic Index, a scale that indexes foods. The foods are ranked based on how they affect the rise and fall of blood sugar levels.
What The GI Index Tells You
The index lists the foods and assigns each food a value. Foods that will raise the blood sugar level are given a high GI value. Foods that do not cause the blood sugar level to go up high, are given low GI value.
What’s the connection of GI with a dietary plan?
Consult the Glycaemic Index in planning your meals. When you choose foods with low GI value, your body will receive a slow and steady release of energy. With the slow release, you will feel full. You will not experience food cravings. Although you don’t need to avoid foods that have a high GI value, the release of short-lived energy can be bad for your health. You’ll begin to feel hungry after a while and reach for a snack. f this constantly happens, you will gain weight and a host of medical problems too.
Drawback to the GI diet
Many GI diets recommend avoiding food with fat. However, crisps, chocolate, and whole milk may have a low GI value but are high in fat.
Advantage of GI diet
Most GI diets recommend plenty of vegetables and fruits. In addition, one must lessen their intake of refined and sugary carbohydrate filled foods.
Does this mean that the GI diet is the answer for people with diabetes?
If you have diabetes, you should always check with your doctor before trying any diet plan. Next, eating healthy means all food groups must be amply and regularly represented in your daily meals and that you keep these eating habits for life. To stay healthy and keep your sugar blood levels down, customize the menus to suit your needs. Avoid foods that have high fat content in them even if they have low GI value.
Verdict on This Diet
Yes -- the GI diet works. You will lose weight, steadily and slowly. Remember- it’s your health that is at stake!
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