The Glycemic Index
Developed in 1981 in the University of Toronto, this index came about in order to rank carbohydrates by the effect they had on the body. Essentially, it was to measure the levels of the glucose in the blood that these foods produced. These rankings for various foods make it an easy reference for people who want to manage their diabetes or those who are susceptible to hypoglycemia. Today, diabetes has gone up to almost uncontrollable levels in the United States and it does not seem to be a respecter of age, social background or gender. This is why having something like the Glycemic Index is a great way for people to monitor what they are eating and to try and gauge how it will affect them.
The Glycemic Index is really a road map and diabetics would do well to make sure that the path they take is one that keeps them healthy and safe. It is a means of empowerment because once you know what foods to eat and what to avoid, diabetes really can leave you be to lead an absolutely normal life. It is only if you go berserk and don't follow the rules that it gets out of control.
The thing is, carbohydrates have different digestion times - some break down quickly, some more slowly. When a person is diabetic, it is rather tough for the system to break down certain carbohydrates so they stay undigested and result in heightened blood sugar levels. In this state, they cannot be eliminated easily as well and this is what causes untold harm in the system if it is left unattended. Unfortunately, it takes a while for any major symptoms to make an appearance so diabetics very often slip up on their food regime.
With the Glycemic Index to refer to, one can familiarize oneself with the carbohydrates that are really harmful and take steps to avoid them. The ones with the low glycemic index tend to digest quickly and then slowly release glucose into the blood so there is no sudden rise in the levels. It's the ones that digest slower that cause the harm.
Let's take a look at the way the carbohydrates are ranked. The index is from one to a hundred. So the higher a food is ranked, the worse it is for a diabetic. Anything lower than 55 is fine for including in one's diet. Vegetables, fruits and whole grains fall into this category. The rating between 56 and 69 is the medium level - not too good but not too bad either. You'll find rice, candy, chocolate, etc here. Beyond this is no man's land as far as diabetes goes. Here you'll find white sugar products, white flour products, potatoes, corn flakes, etc.
Once you know you are suffering from diabetes, you need to get acquainted with the Glycemic Index. You need to empower yourself with the knowledge of what foods are good for you and what could be potentially dangerous. Getting to know what the Glycemic Index is all about helps even if someone close to you is a diabetic. It helps to know what foods can be served and what will sound the danger signal. With a clear idea of what to avoid eating and a sense of discipline, you can live a normal life with diabetes. Remember, diabetes should be managed - don't let it take over your life.