Low GI Carbs – Healthy foods for diabetics
Low GI Carbs - What is the Glycemic index
Glycemic index (GI) tells us the effects of carbohydrates on the level of blood sugar. Low glycemic index carbohydrates (carbs) means those foods will break down slowly inside our Gastrointestinal System and gradually the glucose will be released into the blood.
These foods are also broken down in the liver and converted to some other molecules rather than changing into glucose. As the rise in the blood sugar is gradual, these foods will warrant less insulin to be secreted from pancreas and the result will be better control of blood sugar for diabetic patients. Increase in the blood lipid level will also be less.
Effect of foods over blood sugar is tested by a method called ‘Glucose tolerance test’. A loading dose of the carbs (usually 50 grams) is given and the blood sugar is checked after 2 hours. Various foods are given and the blood sugar level is checked. The foods, which make the curve less steep are considered as a Low GI value.
Low GI carbs are in discussion quite a lot these days. This is a healthy way to control your blood sugar not only for the diabetics, but for the persons who have a diabetic family member also. In fact, we all should consider taking low GI carbs to remain on the safe side.
Low GI carbohydrate foods include – oats, barley, wholegrain, fruits, Basmati rice, pasta made from Semolina wheat, green leafy vegetables, this list is not exhaustive there are many foods in which low GI carbs can be found.
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