The Glycemic Index: Avoid the Higher Ranks

Foods that have ratings on the Glycemic Index have the detrimental affect of raising the body's blood glucose levels at a relatively fast rate. Foods that are high on the Index are helpful to individuals looking to recover from exertion after a workout, or for those who suffer from hypoglycemia. High indexed foods should be avoided at all costs by any diabetic individual on a diabetic diet plan.

Foods that rank high in the Index include corn flakes, various types of white rice, potatoes, and white breads. These foods contain carbohydrates that are broken down rather quickly, making them poor choices for individuals on a diabetic diet plan.

Other foods that are high on the Glycemic Index include those made with high levels of refined white sugar or white flour. Generally speaking, staying away from white foods is the best way to avoid foods with high Index ratings.

The reason why certain foods rank high in the Glycemic Index is because they tend to take diabetics a long time to digest them. The sugar, which is usually in the form of glucose, remains in the blood because the diabetic's body is unable to process and break down the refined sugars and flours. High levels of glucose in the blood lead to frequent urination, a feeling of being extremely thirsty and hungry, as well as profuse sweating.

This situation eventually begins to take a toll on the body of a diabetic. Pain in the kidneys as well as kidney malfunction, blood in the urine, fainting spells, confusion, and even a potentially fatal diabetic coma can all result from high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Individuals with Type I and Type II diabetes need to think carefully about the foods that are part of their diet. The Glycemic Index can serve as a very beneficial guide to selecting the foods that will prove most healthy for them.

Diabetes does not have to be looked at as a death sentence. In fact, it really doesn’t have to involve anything more than a change in a person's lifestyle to achieve success. Diabetes can become a problem if an individual chooses not to follow a proper diet and exercise plan. Individuals who choose to follow the advice of a doctor or an expert In the field have just as much of a chance of living a fulfilling life as a person without diabetes can have.