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glycemic index
CARBS
High
PROTEINS
Low
FATS
Low
Quantity: 100 grams
Glycemic Index: High
Glycemic Load: High
Fiber: Low
Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates
Health Impact: Can cause rapid increase in blood sugar levels, requiring careful management of insulin response and potentially longer digestion time.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Pre-bolus insulin administration may be necessary to manage the anticipated spike.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Avocado with eggs – Healthy fats in avocado slow digestion and provide satiety, while eggs offer high-quality protein.
- Spinach salad with nuts – Spinach is low in carbs and nuts add healthy fats and proteins, balancing blood sugar levels.
- Chia pudding – Chia seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, helping to manage blood sugar.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken with asparagus – Lean protein from chicken and fiber from asparagus ensure minimal blood sugar impact.
- Salmon with broccoli – Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon and fiber in broccoli support blood sugar control.
- Beef stir-fry with mixed vegetables – Protein from beef and low-carb vegetables make this a balanced, blood sugar-friendly meal.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Cauliflower rice – Low in carbs and has a much lower glycemic index than white rice, helping to reduce blood sugar spikes.
- Zucchini noodles – A great substitute for pasta, offering fewer carbs and a lower glycemic impact.
- Almond flour – A low-carb alternative to wheat flour that helps maintain steadier blood glucose levels.
- Leafy greens – Provide minimal impact on blood sugar, replacing higher carb sides like potatoes or corn.
- Berries – Lower in carbs and have a lower glycemic index compared to other fruits like bananas or mangoes.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Initial blood sugar impact is minimal with low-carb foods, preventing sharp spikes.
- 30–60 min: Blood sugar levels may begin to rise slightly depending on the meal's overall glycemic load.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels typically stabilize due to the slow digestion and absorption of low-carb foods.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Combine with high-fiber or high-protein foods to slow glucose absorption.
🤔 FAQs about glycemic index
How does the glycemic index affect my diabetes?
Foods with a low glycemic index release glucose slowly and steadily, helping to maintain more consistent blood sugar levels.
Can I eat fruit on a low-carb diet?
Yes, but choose lower-carb, lower-glycemic fruits like berries and limit portions to control carb intake.
Is it possible to eat out on a low-carb diet?
Yes, focus on meals that center around protein and non-starchy vegetables, and be cautious of sauces and dressings high in sugar or carbs.
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