What is the glycemic index and how does it factor into eating for weight loss?
The glycemic index (GI) is a research tool based on a scale of 0 to 100 and is used to examine how individual carbohydrate foods affect blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI score are digested and absorbed by the body more quickly, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar. Foods with a low GI score are converted into sugar more slowly and do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. When eating for weight loss, its wise to choose foods that are low on the glycemic index so that they will provide lasting energy and limit cravings between meals.