List of Low Glycemic Index Foods (Low GI Foods)

Last updated on November 1st, 2023

The glycemic index measures the impact of food on your blood glucose. Foods with low glycemic index are considered suitable for you since these foods would not cause much fluctuations in your blood sugar. On the glycemic scale, foods scoring less than 55 are considered to have a low glycemic profile.

What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?

The glycemic index (GI) is a measurement scale that categorises carbohydrate-containing foods. Different foods which contain carbs have varied impacts on blood sugar levels. So, the GI measures how quickly a specific food raises blood sugar compared to pure glucose. The scale has the range of 0-100. The highest value, 100, is the blood sugar impact of 50 g of glucose, and 0 specifies no blood sugar increase. The glycemic index was developed by Canadian medical scholar Dr. David Jenkins. The GI scale divides foods into three categories, which are:

• Low glycemic foods: Foods having a score under 55
• Medium GI foods: Foods scoring between 55-70
• High GI foods: Foods scoring above 70

What Are Low Glycemic Foods?

Low glycemic foods fall in the category of scoring less than 55 on the glycemic scale.

It is generally advised in India to consume low glycemic index Indian foods. There are multiple reasons behind this. First, it’s readily available in the market, and also cheap. Moreover, our body is more familiar with their digestion. Also, low-glycemic foods for diabetics are considered the best. This is because they cause a minimum spike in sugar levels. And since diabetics already have an increased blood sugar level, they should eat low glycemic diet foods. On the contrary, high-GI foods should be avoided as they get digested quickly. And cause rapid blood sugar spikes.

Low Glycemic Index Foods for Diabetics

Diabetes is a prominent lifestyle disorder affecting millions worldwide. Diabetes patients have the biggest problem with their sugar levels. They simply cannot process sugar due to their insulin dysfunctionality. This makes it challenging to keep their blood sugar in a safe range. Maintaining good and healthy sugar levels prevents the onset of complications like heart strokes, nerve and organ damage, etc.

There are many studies that suggest the best low-glycemic foods for diabetics as they effectively reduce sugar levels. Moreover, a set of 54 studies done in 2019 revealed low glycemic foods reduced HbA1c and fasting blood glucose. Moreover, They also assist in weight management in diabetics and pre-diabetics.

In a study, over 2 lakh people who took high GI diets had a 33% higher chance of having type 2 diabetes when compared to people who took foods that have low glycemic index. The low glycemic diet foods also lessen pregnancy complications along with helping with gestational diabetes. Moreover, low glycemic carbohydrate foods also curtail the danger of macrosomia by 75%. In macrosomia, there are many short and long-term complications for mother and child.

Low Glycemic Index Food List

When switching to a low glycemic index diet food list here is not much need for calorie tracking. Low glycemic diet foods are recommended as an option for replacing high GI foods. You can include the best low glycemic index foods

High GI (Glycemic Index) Foods to Avoid

High glycemic index foods are foods scoring over 70 on the glycemic scale. The more the number, the more adverse its impact on blood sugar. In the low glycemic foods list, there is nothing strictly prohibited, but the main is portion restraint. Above are the foods you can include. Here are some high-GI food items that you should avoid:

Factors that Affect Glycemic Index of Foods

There are many factors that influence the GI profile of a food. Some low carb low glycemic foods may impact highly on your blood sugar. And some high GI foods may impact less on blood sugar. It all depends on the factors below:

Type of Sugar

There is a widespread belief that all sugars have high GI. But this is not true , as sugar GI ranges from 23, which is of fructose and goes up to 105, which is of maltose.

Level of Refined Carbs

Refining the carbs removes or greatly reduces the fiber content of food items. Thus increasing the glycemic value. Processes such as rolling, grinding, etc., damage amylose and amylopectin. These molecules removal raises the GI and removes food from the low glycemic food list. So, the higher the level of refinement, the more its GI value.

Structure of Starch

Starch in our foods comprises two components: amylose and amylopectin. Amylose takes time to digest, and amylopectin gets quickly digested. Therefore, if food has more amylose, then it will be in the low glycemic foods category.

Nutritional Composition

The addition of nutrients like healthy fats and lean proteins delays the digestion process. Thus making foods low in glycemic index.

Cooking Process Used

The type of cooking and preparation of food affects the glycemic profile of a food. The longer the cooking process, the faster its sugar gets absorbed. Thus raising the GI.

Ripeness

Unripe fruits contain less sugar and complex carbs thus, are considered low glycemic foods. As the fruit ripens, the sugar level increases, and so does the GI value.

Garnishing

Garnishing with acidic substances like lime juice brings down the GI value of the dish.

Sample Low Glycemic Index Foods Chart

Now we present you a weekly sample of low glycemic index foods chart, which you can follow:

Low Glycemic Index Grains

Grains play a pivotal role in providing sustenance and flavor to millions of people. Low glycemic grains release glucose into the bloodstream gradually, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar. Here is a list of some low-glycemic index grains:

• Barley: Barley is one of the versatile, low-GI grains used in dishes like barley water and barley khichdi. It has a low GI, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to manage blood sugar.
• Buckwheat (Kuttu):  Buckwheat is another one on the list of low glycemic grains for diabetes. Buckwheat flour is commonly used during fasting and in dishes like kuttu ki roti.
• Amaranth (Rajgira): Amaranth seeds and flour are gluten-free and low glycemic load grains. They are used in various preparations, including laddoos and porridge.
• Quinoa: Although not native to India, quinoa (one of the low GI whole grains) is becoming increasingly popular for its nutritional benefits. It has a low GI and can be used in salads, pulao, and other dishes.
• Ragi (Finger Millet): Ragi is a staple in southern India and also comes under low glycemic whole grains. It is used to prepare dishes like ragi dosa, ragi mudde, and ragi malt.
• Pearl Millet (Bajra): Pearl millet is another one of the whole grains with a low glycemic index. It is a drought-resistant grain that’s commonly used in the preparation of bhakri, roti, and porridge
• Whole Oats: While oats are not native to India, they are readily available and come in the list of low glycemic index whole grains. They are used in various breakfast options like oats upma and overnight oats.
• Brown Rice: Unlike white rice, brown rice has a lower GI due to its intact bran layer. It is an excellent alternative for those looking to control blood sugar levels.
• Whole Wheat: Whole wheat products like roti and whole wheat bread have a lower GI compared to their refined counterparts.

 Read More: 16 Best Fruits Juice For Diabetes.

Low Glycemic Carbohydrates For Diabetes:

Here’s a list of foods that contain carbohydrates but have a low glycemic index (GI). There are certain low GI carbs that can help provide sustained energy and stabilize blood sugar levels. Here is the low GI carbs list:

• Lentils: Lentils, such as green, brown, or red varieties, are low GI carbohydrates and are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Chickpeas: Chickpeas are another kind of low glycemic index carbs. They are commonly used in dishes like hummus and chana masala and provide both carbohydrates and protein.
• Beans: Various types of beans, including black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans, come under low glycemic index carbohydrates. They are versatile and can be used in soups, salads, and stews.
• Barley: Barley is another one of low glycemic carbs and can be used in soups, stews, and salads. Barley is also rich in fiber and nutrients.
• Quinoa: Quinoa is another one in the low GI carbohydrates food list. Quinoa is a complete protein and has a low GI. It’s a versatile grain that can be used in various dishes, from salads to grain bowls.
• Bulgur: Bulgur is a whole wheat grain that’s partially cooked. It has a low GI and is often used in Middle Eastern dishes like tabbouleh.
• Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are a low GI carb food and a classic choice for a wholesome breakfast. They can be used in oatmeal, overnight oats, and baked goods.
• Sweet Potatoes: Contrary to popular belief, sweet potatoes are on the low GI carbohydrates list. They have a lower GI compared to regular potatoes and are a nutritious source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and fiber.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Whole wheat pasta has a lower GI compared to traditional refined pasta. It provides complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Buckwheat: Buckwheat groats or buckwheat flour have a low GI and are used in dishes like kasha and gluten-free pancakes.
• Non-starchy Vegetables: Low glycemic index carbohydrates foods include vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens.
• Berries: Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are low in sugar and have a relatively low GI compared to other fruits.
• Nuts and Seeds: While they are not high in carbohydrates, nuts and seeds have a low GI due to their healthy fats and fiber content.
• Mushrooms: Many types of mushrooms, like shiitake and portobello, have very few carbohydrates and come under non-glycemic carbohydrates as they have negligible glycemic index.

Low Glycemic Diet Foods as Snacks

Some low glycemic foods can also be used as snacks to satisfy your hunger cravings between meals. Here are a few low glycemic Indian foods as snacks:

1. Plain dry fruits and nuts
2. Salad
3. Sprouts
4. Mixed fruits like berries, apples, sweet lime and more
5. Hard-boiled egg
6. Broccoli stir fry
7. Plain popcorn

Drawbacks of Foods Low in Glycemic Index

Despite low glycemic foods having numerous benefits, there are some drawbacks, too.

• The glycemic index doesn’t completely provide the nutritional composition of a food item. Foods apart from being on the low glycemic index breakfast foods list can also have other nutrients like proteins, fats, fiber, vitamins, etc.
• Low glycemic diet foods don’t necessarily mean they are healthy. Some low glycemic foods, like ice cream, have a GI range between 27 to 55. But this isn’t okay for regular consumption.
• Another shortcoming of the low glycemic food list is that it reflects the GI value of a single food item. When we have lunch or dinner, we eat a combination of many items. Combining high GI foods with low glycemic foods results in less blood sugar spike. An example is mixing vegetable daal with rice. Rice alone has high GI, but when it’s mixed with daal, the overall glycemic response falls.
• The glycemic index doesn’t take into consideration the carb content of the food. It is the carb and its type which brings the blood spikes. An example is watermelon; it isn’t on the low glycemic foods list. But it only has 8 g of carbs per 100 g. Therefore, it comes in low glycemic load foods lists.

Therefore, relying solely on glycemic index may not always be the best guide for eating healthy

Read More: Is Rice Good For Diabetes?

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the Glycemic Index (GI) and incorporating low glycemic foods into your diet can have significant health benefits. Low glycemic index foods for diabetics can greatly help them manage their blood glucose. Best low glycemic foods provide a sustained release of energy, help control hunger, and can contribute to better overall health. Concluding this blog, a balanced diet that incorporates a low glycemic index food list, along with regular exercise and overall healthy lifestyle choices, can contribute to improved well-being and better sugar control. Factors such as cooking methods and food combinations can influence the GI of a meal. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to not only individual foods but also how they are prepared and eaten together. While low glycemic Indian foods offer many advantages, it’s essential to acknowledge that they will not suit everyone at the same level. People should consult doctors or dietitians to create a tailored nutrition plan for their bodily requirements.

Read More: Is Butter Milk Good for Diabetes?

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