Glycaemic Index (Gi)

Glycaemic Index is a simple measure to help you balance the foods you eat - and feel better. It's do with the speed at which different types of carbohydrates are broken down into glucose and insulin that power your body. The faster a food breaks down into energy, the higher its Gi rating.

High-Gi foods deliver instant bursts of fast-burning energy, whereas low and medium-Gi foods are absorbed into the bloodstream more slowly and make you feel fuller for longer.

Eating more low-Gi food helps control weight and makes you feel satisfied after a meal. However, this doesn't mean high-Gi foods are bad in themselves. A sensible balance of the two is the best way to lower Gi overall.

Examples of high Gi foods are:
Corn flakes, white bread, mashed potato, parsnips

Low Gi foods include:
Beans (e.g. baked beans, red kidney beans), lentils, apples, milk, peanuts