Is The Glycemic Index Diet As Good As They Say It Is?

By Bill Fredricks

There are several synonymous terms that are used when referring to the glycemic index diet. Some of the terms include glycemic food index, glycemic food diet, and glycemic index diet. These terms as well as others refer to a diet that utilizes the glycemic index to plan meals. So what is it?

The glycemic index is a measurement of the amount of glucose in your blood after eating. Because foods metabolize at different rates, the about of glucose in the blood will vary. The index measures that phenomena on a scale from 0-110. Zero indicates no glucose and 110 indicates pure glucose.

Early on the glycemic index was used by doctors for patients who were diabetic or had kidney ailments. But, it was found that the diet also had positive effects with regard to weight loss and preventing heart disease. When a person planned meals according to the index, they were found to be much healthier as their metabolism worked with greater efficiency.

According to the index scale, the body functions best when foods are consumed that have a glycemic ranking of 69 or lower. A side benefit of this diet is natural weight loss. As foods with a lower ranking become a regular part of a diet, a person's metabolism began to consume body fat.

The index also aids in determining the amount of protein that should be part of the meal. If food with a higher glycemic ranking, like the processed carbohydrates in white bread, are part of the meal, then greater portions of protein should be added to slow digestion and prevent a spike in blood glucose. Combining the right foods to metabolize at the best rate is also considered in this diet.

Chocolate ranks high on the food index. But, chocolate mixed with peanuts ranks much lower. This is because the protein in the Peanuts will slow digestion. So, a Snickers bar has a glycemic ranking of 40, while a French baguette has a ranking of 90. The Snickers bar is much better for you. Surprised?

Yes, the glycemic index diet is as good as they say it is. There are now over 30 years of research and proven case studies to support the research. When you make it a lifestyle, your mental alertness and energy level will be at their peak. Also, your body weight will seek a natural level, your mood will improve, and you may find you have less of a problem coping with stress.