Kylie Minogue, Bill & Hillary Clinton - every so often a diet gets the backing of the rich and famous. The G.I. diet is the latest receiver and by the look of those doing the talking, it certainly seems to work.
What is the G.I. diet?
G.I. (glycemic index) is a rating given to foods with carbohydrate. It was discovered after analyzing the effect some foods have on blood sugar levels. Some caused big changes while others didn't. These changes are represented on a scale and that scale is the Glycemic Index.
A high G.I. number indicates the sugar will be released very quickly and a low number means a longer slower release. The aim is to consume more lower value foods.
How does the G.I. diet help weight loss?
After eating a low G.I. food your energy levels are smooth and constant. With a high value your energy level increases sharply and briefly, the drop is equally dramatic. The drop makes you feel like having a snack this is the main cause of weight gain.
The G.I. diet avoids the sudden rise and fall in energy levels so you're less likely to snack. Low G.I. foods tend to be low in calories and nutritionally well balanced. The diet has been scientifically tested as a tool for weight loss, and was proven successful.
Does the G.I. diet prohibit any food types?
It has no restrictions like a low carb one does. The G.I. number is known for a wide range of foods and the diet only requires you eat the low ones most of the time.
Some food types can vary enormously in their G.I. despite being the same type. White bread has a high number whereas whole meal bread has a low one. This is why an accurate list is a must.
Definitely one to consider
With the G.I. diet being good nutritionally you won't go short of the vitamins and minerals you need. It's easy to follow and the foods are cheap and readily available. The nature of the diet centering around sugar makes it ideal for diabetics.
Overall the G.I. diet is recommended. Get the best of both worlds by combining it with a calorie controlled diet and your weight will fly off.
