Thursday, June 6, 2013

Tasty Beneficial Low Glycemic Snacks

By Michelle Howe


Snacking is often the downfall of those attempting to lose weight. They snack on all the wrong foods like donuts and chips. This has a very negative effect on their health. However, there is an answer to this problem. If these unhealthy foods are replaced by low glycemic snacks, then snacking is a great way to keep blood sugar levels stable. You feel satisfied for longer and have enough energy to last through the whole day.

The glycemic index is used to show how quickly blood glucose levels are raised by foods. Foods are given a number on a scale and the higher they are on the scale, the more unhealthy they are for you. Sometimes people are surprised by certain foods that have high GI levels like corn, carrots and raisins.

Foods high on the scale are those that release glucose quickly into the system. These are foods like white sugar, flour and processed foods. Those that break down more slowly and release nutrients gradually are lower on the scale. These foods include many vegetables, foods high in fiber like whole grains and legumes as well as those high in protein like lean meat, fish and nuts.

Insulin is necessary to get glucose into cells where energy is made. However, if too much insulin is produced consistently this can cause many serious health problems. This is thought result from an unhealthy cycle of blood sugar being too high and then too low.

To prevent this unhealthy cycle from occurring, the levels of sugar in the blood need to be stabilized. Foods low on the GI scale can help to achieve this. If this is not the case, there is an greater risk of developing type two diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular problems and even some cancers.

Another benefit of eating foods low on the scale is that they make you feel full for longer. This helps if you are trying to develop healthier eating habits and reduce weight. This benefit of sustained energy is one of the reasons why sportsmen or women may consume a low GI snack before competing in a sports event. They are able to complete the event without energy flagging half way through.

To prevent reaching for the wrong type of snack, it is important to stock up on healthy options. Many types of low GI bars containing nuts and seeds are available. These are a perfect choice for a lunchbox. Your child will be able to concentrate and perform better than if he or she has eaten a sugary snack.

Eating low glycemic snacks can go a long way towards changing your habits. It is not about depriving yourself in any way but simply substituting bad choices for good ones. You will not only feel more energetic but will enjoy the long term benefits of improved health too.




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