Do You Have Healthy Blood Sugar Levels?

The glycemic index or GI measures how fast the body breaks down most foods, such as carbohydrates. Once the food has been broken down, the sugars then turn into glucose. Glucose is the main source of fuel for the body’s cells. There are two stages: High and Low

High glycemic carbohydrates are best consumed during or within an hour after exercising. Generally, these types of foods enter the bloodstream immediately and are readily available to help fuel or refuel the muscles. These foods can also provide an adverse affect. When consuming high glycemic foods, one may feel tired due to the spike in insulin levels. It is best not to eat them alone. If you were to look at the food’s glycemic index, any number over 56 are considered high glycemic. These types of foods consist of: White breads, white potatoes, white flour, cereals, puffed wheat, watermelon, jelly beans, honey, sodas, pinto beans, ice cream, candy bars, oranges, pineapples and cantaloupe.

Low glycemic carbohydrates are best consumed for breakfast or throughout the day. These enter the bloodstream slowly best eaten early in the morning or pre-workout (exercise). These types of foods provide long-term energy and help maintain glucose (blood sugars) levels during the day or extended workout sessions. If you were to look at the food’s glycemic index, any number lower than 55 are considered low glycemic. These types of foods consist of: nuts, cherries, grapefruit, milk, yogurt, apples, bananas, baked beans, oatmeal, all bran, peaches, carrots, green grapes, orange juice, sweet potatoes, yams and sweet corn.