Glycemic Index (GI) Part 2

As mentioned in part 1, the general idea is to balance blood sugar levels with the food we eat and avoid the high peaks and troughs associated with quick release carbohydrates. However, there is a time when it is beneficial to eat high GI carbs; immediately after a tough workout, to replace the energy lost in your body as quickly as possible. At this time the body is able to use the rise in blood sugar productively, storing the sugars as glycogen in the muscles and help recovery.

Examples: sports and post workout drinks, bananas etc

Here are some more benefits to eating lower GI foods:

- Help people lose and control weight
- Increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin
- Improves diabetes control
- Reduces the risk of heart disease

- Reduce blood cholesterol levels

- Help manage the symptoms of PCOS
- Reduce hunger and keep you fuller for longer

- Prolong physical endurance

(Source: The University of Sydney, 2006)

If you would like to look up certain foods or search for high or low foods, I have found the following database:
http://www.glycemicindex.com/
then click on ‘GI Database’.

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