The Glycemic index (GI) is a Globally recognized rating system for all food that contains carbohydrates. It depicts the rates of blood sugar absorptions or in the words how quickly each food product affects the blood sugar level when it is eaten as a whole.
According to the Glycemic index food is categorized in following three forms:
- High GI food
- Medium GI food
- Low GI food
Food with High GI
Food that contains carbohydrates that can be easily broken down by the body and causes rapid increase in the sugar level in the body’s blood glucose is termed a high GI rating. Food with high GI commonly are as follow:
- Soft drinks, fruit juices, and aerated drinks.
- Slices of bread
- Potatoes
- Sugar and Sugary food
- White rice etc.
Low and Medium GI foods
Low or medium GI food is much better for the body of the person as it breakdown carbohydrates slowly and gradually which causes a gradual rise in the blood sugar levels. The followings are the food items come under this category.
- Fruits and Vegetables.
- Nuts including almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, makhana, etc.
- Pulses.
- Wholegrain food such as porridge, oats, etc.
Glycemic Index of Makhana
Makhana or fox nut seeds are popular for having a low Glycemic Index (GI). This nutritional powerhouse is rich in a variety of nutrients and minerals containing proteins, fat, and other essential compounds which are fit for our body. Fox nuts are rich in a variety of amino acids, therefore, it can be taken in any form as a snack, dessert, roasted form, etc.
How does low GI Diets help?
- It is scientifically proven that low GI index food helps to monitor type1 and type2 diabetes. It also helps in managing cholesterol and insulin level in our body.
- There is a number of women who are suffering from PCOD/PCOS(polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). Such individuals often develop resistance to insulin due to excess weight gain and hormonal imbalance. Consuming food such as makhana with low GI helps in maintaining an optimal weight and overcoming the ailment.