Glycaemic Index and Diabetes
Glycaemic Index (GI) is a ranking given to foods to describe how quickly the carbohydrate they contain is digested by the digestive system and absorbed into the blood. Only foods that contain carbohydrate can have a Glycaemic Index.
Carbohydrate is an important energy source for the body and carbohydrate containing foods are an important part of a healthy diet.
Foods with carbohydrate that are quickly digested and absorbed into the blood stream have a high GI whilst those which are slowly digested and absorbed have a low GI.
Eating low GI foods may:
- help to keep hunger at bay for longer after eating
- provide gradual, continuous supply of energy from one meal to the next
- help to keep blood glucose levels stable in those with diabetes, by providing a slower, more sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream
- Both high GI and low GI foods can be included in a healthy diet. Understanding the GI has a range of benefits for all people who are interested in food, nutrition and health.
An Accredited Practising Dietitian can provide further information and support on how the GI can best be applied to your diet and lifestyle.
Diabetes Tasmania has Accredited Practising Dietitians available to assist you with your nutrition queries. Phone 1300 136 588 to find out more about the services our dietitians offer.
