Understanding Diabetes and Glycemic Index

🩺 Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). It occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or when the body can't effectively use the insulin it produces. There are two main types: Type 1, often diagnosed in childhood, and Type 2, more common in adults and often linked to lifestyle factors. Understanding diabetes involves knowing its symptoms, causes, complications, and management techniques such as healthy eating, regular exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and medication. With the right knowledge and lifestyle changes, people with diabetes can lead healthy and active lives.

🥗 Understanding the Glycemic Index (GI)

The Glycemic Index (GI) is a ranking system for carbohydrates based on how they affect blood glucose levels. Foods are scored on a scale from 0 to 100—low-GI foods (55 or less) cause slower, more gradual increases in blood sugar, while high-GI foods (70 or more) cause rapid spikes. Understanding the GI is especially important for people with diabetes, as it helps manage blood sugar levels effectively. Incorporating low-GI foods like whole grains, legumes, and most fruits and vegetables can support long-term health, energy stability, and weight control.