What is Glycemic Index in relationship to Blood Glucose Levels

The glycemic index is a value assigned to foods based on how slowly or how quickly those foods cause increases in blood glucose levels. Foods low on the glycemic index (GI) scale tend to release glucose slowly and steadily. Foods high on the glycemic index release glucose rapidly.

Victoria Middleton

Victoria Middleton

RD
Registered Dietitian
New York City, NY
HealthChoicesFirst practitioner

Madelyn Morgan

Registered Dietitian
Niagara falls, ON
HealthChoicesFirst practitioner

Leah Mete RD

Registered Dietitian
St. Catharines, ON

Quiz: Do You Understand Blood Glucose Monitoring?

Test your knowledge by answering the following questions:

Questions
True
False
1

You don't need to monitor your blood glucose levels if you have type 2 diabetes.

Explanation:
Blood glucose monitoring is an important part of any type 1 or type 2 diabetes management plan. If you have diabetes, it’s important to check your blood sugar levels as prescribed by your doctor. This will determine if you have low or high blood sugar and show you how your medication and lifestyle are affecting your blood sugar levels.
2

A traditional blood glucose meter uses lancets to puncture your skin.

Explanation:
You’ll need to get a blood glucose meter from your pharmacist or diabetes educator and learn how to use it. A traditional blood glucose meter uses lancets to puncture your skin, drawing a drop of blood that you then test on a blood glucose strip.
3

A flash glucose meter (FGM) requires you to prick your finger.

Explanation:
A flash glucose meter (FGM) is a newer device that doesn’t require you to prick your finger – it uses sensor scans. Some people use a sensor inserted under the skin, called a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), to check blood sugar levels.
4

Some people with type 2 diabetes require insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.

Explanation:
All people with type 1 diabetes and some with type 2 diabetes require insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. People with diabetes take insulin by a syringe, injection pen or an insulin pump.
5

Your age does not affect your diabetes treatment plan.

Explanation:
Your diabetes treatment plan, including blood glucose monitoring and insulin, depends on factors such as your age, risk factors, current health and other conditions.
(Answer all questions to activate)

Sarah Blunden, P.Dt, CDE, CPT, Professional Dietitian, talks about how to eat healthy carbohydrates for a good energy sources and improved glycemic control.

Glycemic Index and Blood Glucose Levels

The glycemic index was a concept that was introduced by Dr. David Jenkins out of the University of Toronto.

It’s a concept that categorizes food on how quickly it causes a rise in blood sugar once ingested. They categorize foods whether they are high glycemic or low glycemic, and it’s interesting to note that foods like white bread or potatoes actually cause a faster blood sugar rise than a food like regular table sugar.

So when you’re choosing your meals, for example if you wanted rice for dinner, try to choose wild rice over white, and when it comes to fruit, choose blueberries over watermelon.

If somebody has more questions about the glycemic index they should speak with a local dietitian, certified diabetes educator or a diabetes specialist.

If somebody has more questions about the glycemic index, they should speak with a local dietitian, certified diabetes educator or a diabetes specialist.

Presenter: Ms. Sarah Ware, Registered Dietitian, North Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Registered Dietitian

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