Benefits of GI Diet

The GI diet comprises of foods that have a positive effect on the blood sugar levels. Starchy foods affect the sugar levels more than that of sugary foods. Glucose has a glycemic index value of 100 and is used as a reference or standard. The effect on the blood sugar levels is compared with glucose. The degree of blood sugar rise of a food is determined by glycemic index. Foods with a high GI raise the sugar levels. It is for a long span of time and the degree of increase is high. Foods with a low glycemic index release sugar into the blood in a low manner, thereby providing a steady supply of energy. This results in suppressing the appetite, thereby helps in weight loss. Foods with a low GI are those that have glycemic index levels of 55 or less. A glycemic index value of 56 to 69 is considered medium, whereas a GI of 70 or more is considered maximum or high.

The demerits of a GI meal are some of the following:

• The GI value of a meal is difficult to decipher.
• The other nutrients in a so-called low glycemic index meal might be less.
  
• High fat, low glycemic index foods are better avoided.
  
• Increased amount of salt in such foods prove detrimental.