What exactly is the glycemic index and how do I use it?
Your doctor told you to "follow a low glycemic diet" but didn't explain what that actually means. We've got you covered from here.
The glycemic index sounds complicated, but it's actually a simple tool that can transform how you manage your blood sugar.
Understanding the Glycemic Index
The glycemic index (GI) is a 0-100 scale that measures how quickly foods raise your blood sugar after eating them. Think of it as a speedometer for your blood sugar response.
Here's how it works:
- Low GI (55 or less): Foods that raise blood sugar slowly and steadily - these are your friends
- Medium GI (56-69): Foods that cause a moderate blood sugar rise - eat occasionally
- High GI (70+): Foods that spike blood sugar quickly - limit these
How to Use the Glycemic Index in Real Life
Start with simple swaps:
- Instead of white bread (GI 75), choose pumpernickel bread (GI 41)
- Replace instant oatmeal (GI 79) with steel-cut oats (GI 42)
- Swap white rice (GI 73) for brown rice (GI 68) or quinoa (GI 53)
Focus on these low GI staples:
- Most vegetables (especially non-starchy ones)
- Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans
- Nuts, seeds, and healthy fats
- Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and eggs
- Fruits like apples, berries, and pears
The golden rule: Aim for most of your meals to center around low GI foods. You don't need to memorize numbers or carry charts around. Simply choosing whole, minimally processed foods will naturally guide you toward lower GI options.
Why This Matters for Your Health
When you eat high GI foods, your blood sugar spikes quickly, forcing your pancreas to release large amounts of insulin. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, weight gain (especially around your midsection), and eventually type 2 diabetes.
Low GI foods provide steady energy without the rollercoaster of blood sugar spikes and crashes that leave you tired, hungry, and craving more food.
The bottom line: You don't need to count or calculate anything complicated. Focus on whole foods, make simple swaps, and your body will respond with more stable energy and better blood sugar control.
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