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GLYCEMIC INDEX

The Glycemic Index is a way of measuring the way a carbohydrate is broken down in the blood. The faster the food is broken down into sugar the higher the insulin levels spike in your bloodstream. Therefore foods with a low glycemic index are broken down slowly and cause less disturbance in the insulin levels in the blood. They help you feel fuller for longer, and to lose weight by eating less, they are an invaluable tool. High Glycemic Index foods are broken down quickly and provide a quick rush of insulin in the blood and if eaten often and heavily will eventually lead to Type Two Diabetes.

The Glycemic Index is the defining characteristic used to select which foods are restricted in the initial phases. You are trying to get the body off its dependance of sugars and insulin-raising sugary foods. The filling nature of lower-glycemic index foods help to keep you eating less, but it also helps the body reach a healthier chemistry that relies less on rushes of sugar to the bloodstream for energy.

Low GI foods help you to lower cholesterol levels, help to prevent diabetes, help you to have better physical endurance, and help replenish the body after you exercise.

A better understanding of the Glycemic Index will help you to succeed on the South Beach Diet since you will know why you should avoid certain foods and, when in the maintanance phase, you will be able to determine if a food should be avoided when unsure.