CHECK OUT THE GLYCEMIC INDEX OF FOODS!

You’ve probably heard the term “glycemic” used with particular reference to foods, as in “low-glycemic” and “high-glycemic.” The glycemic index (GI) of foods refers to the ranking according to how quickly or slowly their consumption attacks blood sugar levels. High-glycemic-index (H-GI) foods cause a quick reaction because they break down rapidly during digestion. Blood sugar, or glucose, levels rise promptly when you eat H-GI foods that are sometimes called “quick-acting” or “simple” carbs. Orange juice is a classic example even though some lists give juices a moderate rather than a high rating. The more concentrated the juice, the higher the GI. After half an hour of working out, or vigorous sport, you should drink some juice. It will instantly energize you and counter the energy depletion you suffer from lack of food. You’ll find that H-GI foods are typically not nutrient-dense processed foods, although there are some exceptions: acidophilus yogurt, fresh fruit, and all-natural no-sugar-added fruit juice.

Low-glycemic-index foods, on the other hand, break down slowly and create a gradual increase in blood-sugar levels. These are often referred to as “complex” carbs. To achieve the healthiest, fittest body, you should avoid or seriously restrict consumption of high-glycemic processed foods, and instead indulge n the “good” or “healthy” carbs that is the L-GI foods. Next month, I’ll talk about carbohydrate management with exercise.

B-fit! Train hard!

To your health,

Ailina