Glycaemic Index / Glycaemic Load

Feelin Fine — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 09:29:04 +0000

Carbohydrates are the source of most of the energy (kilocalories) we eat (nearly 50% in most UK diets), and supply the body with glucose for growth, muscle and brain function. Dietitians used to advise that starchy foods were digested and absorbed slowly, and that sweet sugary foods were digested and absorbed quickly. Many studies feeding humans identical amounts of carbohydrate from different foods have shown different effects on blood glucose levels. The glycaemic index (GI Index) is a way to describe, on a scale of 1 to 100, the blood glucose response to eating a carbohydrate-containing food in comparison to a reference food (white bread or glucose). The carbohydrate from some foods (such as oats, beans and pulses, pasta, whole-grain breads) are absorbed slowly; after eating these, blood glucose levels rise gradually, do not reach high levels, and stimulate a small insulin response. The carbohydrates from other foods (such as potatoes, white bread and cornflakes) are absorbed quickly; after eating these, blood glucose levels rise quickly, reach high levels, and stimulate a large insulin response.

The glycaemic (blood sugar) response to carbohydrate foods is less pronounced when carbohydrate foods are eaten with proteins and/or with fats; this is usually the case with most snacks and meals. The glycaemic response from a cheese sandwich is slower and lower than the glycaemic response to eating the same amount of bread only; the glycaemic response from eating a baked potato is slower when it is eaten together with baked beans. The other factor that needs to be considered is the amount of carbohydrate in a typical portion of food consumed. The Glycaemic Load (GL) is a measure of the total glycaemic response to a food or meal calculated with the GI figure and the amount of carbohydrate in a serving. In practice, the GL is a marker for the blood glucose effects of foods/meals consumed. The small amount of carbohydrate in a typical portion in some high GI foods, such a carrots or watermelon, gives them a low GL figure.

The GI and GL concept are useful for people with diabetes, who need to balance their blood glucose levels with medication. The concept has also been used to plan the diets of sportspeople, to match the supply and demands for glucose in relation to training and performance. Some studies have suggested that diets with overall lower GI levels may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and coronary heart disease, and may support the prevention and treatment of obesity. Many dietitians are involved in further research to clarify the best application of GI concepts in dietary advice, to prevent disease and support good health in the population.

Glycaemic Load Home Testing Kit

Feelin Fine — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 09:20:30 +0000

Let’s face it. People want to lose weight and they are willing to try just about anything to get the results they desire. We see it all over the news, in magazines, and on TV. With all the new diet trends and fads on the rise, many people throw caution in the wind as they ignore one of the most important aspects about maintaining a healthy body – their blood sugar.

Many dieters are quick to hop on the latest trend and try out low calorie/low fat diets, but are left sluggish, tired, and feeling a lack of energy. This is because their blood sugar balance is not correctly maintained. If blood sugar problems remain an issue for extended periods of time, diseases such as diabetes become a reality.

If you are looking to begin any diet or think you may already suffer from diabetes, it is important to get control over your blood sugar. But, is there a safe way to check and monitor your blood sugar without having to pay expensive doctor and hospital bills?

Yes, there is. The GLCheck test by YorkTest Laboratories can check your blood sugar and help to identify those at risk of type 2 diabetes. It can also help people who are trying to lose weight through dieting by helping to keep their energy levels up and their blood sugar in balance.

The GLCheck Test by YorkTest Laboratories is a safe, conveinent test you can take in the privacy of your own home. Simply take the finger prick blood test, and then mail your test in. You’ll have results within 10 days.

We highly recommend taking the GLCheck test if you have a family history of diabetes, are of Asian or African origin, males with a waist measurement greater than 37 inches, females with a waist measurement greated than 31.5 inches, or are about to start any new low calorie/low fat diet.

If you’re ready to gain control over your blood sugar & more importantly your weight, please click here.

The glycaemic load test is ideal for those people starting a low GL diet or with a family history of diabetes

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Glycaemic Index / Glycaemic Load

Glycaemic Load Home Testing Kit