Glycemic Index: Understanding How Food Affects Blood Sugar

The glycemic index (GI) predicts the way certain foods affect our blood glucose levels. It is a measure of how quickly and how much a food raises our blood sugar compared to the standard food which is pure glucose. Foods with a high GI are rapidly digested and absorbed, leading to a sharp increase in blood glucose levels. On the other hand, foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed more slowly, resulting in a gradual rise in blood sugar levels. Low GI foods are generally recommended as they are associated with better blood sugar control and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.