Glycemic Index Explained: Which Foods Spike Blood Sugar Fastest

The term glycemic index is well known among people with type 1 diabetes, as they must take it into account when choosing foods. Over time, however, this indicator has expanded beyond endocrinology into dietetics and sports medicine. Today, marathon runners, advocates of healthy lifestyles, and those aiming to lose weight all pay close attention to it. High, Medium, and Low Glycemic Index Foods Researcher David Jenkins and his followers divided foods into three categories based on glycemic index (GI): High GI foods — 70 and above Medium GI foods — 56 to 69 Low GI foods — 55 and below When consuming foods with a high glycemic index, glucose is absorbed quickly in the gastrointestinal tract and enters the bloodstream within about 30 minutes. As a result, blood sugar rises rapidly and then drops just as quickly. This entire process typically takes no more than 1.5 hours.