What Is a High Glycemic Index?

According to information published by The University of Sydney, the glycemic index "is a ranking of carbohydrates on a scale from 0 to 100 according to the extent to which they raise blood sugar levels after eating." Carbohydrates are the only type of food assigned a glycemic index value because those foods impact blood sugar levels more than others. See the Resources section for a link to a glycemic index database.

High Glycemic Index

• Eating foods with a high glycemic index will cause your blood sugar to rise after you finish your meal. Starchy foods such as rice and potatoes are considered high glycemic foods. Foods with a glycemic index higher than 55 are considered to be high glycemic foods.

Low Glycemic Index

• Eating foods with a low glycemic index can prevent blood sugar from spiking after you finish your meal. Legumes, fruits and non-starchy vegetables are low glycemic foods. Foods with a glycemic index lower than 55 are considered to be low glycemic foods.

Why is this important?

• Diabetesnet.com explains that it is important to understand food's glycemic index and the effect high or low blood sugar can have on your daily activities. The website cites examples such as knowing to eat food with a high glycemic index to stop your blood sugar from dropping after exercising or selecting a low glycemic breakfast cereal to avoid blood sugar spikes after breakfast.