Glycemic-Index Diet: What To Know

Overview

The aim:

Weight loss, better blood-sugar control, heart health.

The claim:

You’ll lose (or maintain) weight while cutting your risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

The theory:

Eating “good” carbs – bran cereal and many fruits and veggies, such as apples and carrots, for example – controls appetite and delays hunger, promoting weight loss. “Bad” carbs, such as white bread and instant mashed potatoes, are quickly digested and released into the bloodstream, spiking blood sugar and making you hungry sooner. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of a carb’s effect on blood sugar. Good carbs are lower on the glycemic index. They are digested slowly, so you feel fuller longer, and your blood sugar and metabolism don’t go out of whack.

Balanced Diet

These diets fall within accepted ranges for the amount of protein, carbs, fat and other nutrients they provide.

Pros & Cons

• You shape your diet
• You won’t be hungry

• No guidance on foods other than carbs
• Got to do homework