All About Low Glycemic Index Diets
Low glycemic index diets have not only become popular for diabetics – it has also become a way for overweight and obese people to lose weight in safe and effective method. The Low GI diet is not something new, does not incorporate fad diets or the use of creams, pills or lotions. It does not require pre – packed or expensive foods.
What Exactly Is GI?
GI stands for Glycemic Index. This index is based on food’s carbohydrate content, and how quick the carbohydrates affect the blood glucose level of the body. Foods with high GI are easily digested by the body and are turned into sugar. It’s not quite surprising how most foods like these lack the vitamins and nutrients that are essential. Foods with high GI are usually laden with fats and calories, and some examples are:
Foods that are high in glucose or sugar
Mashed or Baked potatoes
White rice
White bread
Pastries like cookies, muffins, cakes and donuts
Junk Food
Making A Big Difference
How a certain food is prepared also affects its Glycemic Index. For example, pre – cooked or instant oatmeal has higher GI than oatmeal that is made and cooked in the traditional manner. Thus, it is important to consume less foods that are pre – packaged, pre – cooked and those filled with additives and preservatives.
Low GI Diet: Making Choices
If you decide to start at Low Glycemic Index diet, you should first and foremost understand that you aren’t just helping your body lose weight. You are also making a conscious effort to eat better and make nutritious choices. Commit to this – not only because you want to shed some inches and pounds off of your body, but because you want to start a healthy lifestyle.
Here are some foods that have low GI levels. Of course, you might be surprised that you’ve actually been eating plenty of low GI foods already. If you haven’t, yet, start switching now and make sure to include these foods in your diet:
most fruits
grains with high fiber (whole grain, bran)
pasta
low fat yogurt
whole milk
cereals that are whole grain
Here are some foods that you can incorporate into your daily diet. They are medium ranked on the Gi index, and should be eaten sparingly. Some examples are:
boiled potatoes
dried raisins and apricots
shortbread cookies
ice cream
What About Meat and Veggies?
Now, you might wonder why cheese, eggs, meat and vegetables don’t appear anywhere on the GI list. This is because these foods do not contain any carbohydrates. Thus, these foods are suitable to consume, as long as you follow the guidelines of the diet. This means that you can be a big meat eater or a vegetarian – you can go along with this diet.
Having a low glycemic index is great for anyone who wants to lose weight, without having to give up the foods that you love. While there are some foods that you must avoid, there are plenty of alternatives to it. A low GI diet is non – constricting, and does not stress you out with cravings at all. And lastly, it’s healthy for you. Happy eating!
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