Glycemic Index of Different Foods

When it comes to breads and the glycemic index, not all breads are made equal. Some varieties of breads are at the top of the glycemic index. This fact is especially true when compared to other choices on the low glycemic index of food.

In fact, there are so many types of foods today; it can be a challenge to choose the healthiest type. Breads made from whole grains are generally low glycemic and healthier than breads made with refined or enriched flour. It should come as no real surprise that white bread is at the top of the glycemic index (GI) and many mass produced wheat breads are not far behind. However, thanks to the glycemic index, there are ways to have your cake and eat it too.

Wheat Bread

Multi-grains, in general, can also be a nice pick, however, the glycemic load can vary considerably depending upon the manufacturer's ingredients. Some multigrains are indeed low on the glycemic index and have additional health benefits.

For the multi-grains (GI,GL) to be considered healthy, it needs to be in the medium level range, but would be best if it is at the low level. So how does most bread rank? Well common store bought wheat varieties ranks 90. Not very good. Enriched wheat bread has a glycemic index of 99-just one point lower than white bread.

Wheat grains found most typically in the store is a modified version of white bread. It's one of the best representation of a food that has both high and low GI ranks within food a group. Accessing the GI/GL list helps people to understand what breads are healthy and which one to avoid.

When it comes to breads and the (GI/GL), not all breads are created equal. Our society has placed breads as a foundation for a healthy diet. If these loaves are refined and high (GI,GL) they can contribute to heart disease, and obesity. Examples of the wrong choices are English muffins, bagels, banquettes, and of course all the varieties of white bread. All these rank high on the (GI) list.

The following are some of the bread varieties and their corresponding GI values

* whole grain bread 50 Low

* white pita bread 57 Medium

* cheese flavored pizza 60 Medium

* wheat bread 58 medium

* burger bun 61 medium

* white bread 71 high

* Baguette 95 high

Conclusion

Whole grain breads rank the best on the (GI/GL) list and should be consumed in moderation.

Glycemic Index of Different Foods

Ed Suriano holds a Bachelor Degree in Science from Rochester Institute of Technology. For the past 30 years he has practiced as a certified clinical Nuclear Medicine Technologist, performing over 30,000 exams. Most recently he has observed, studied and written on health, nutrition and weight loss.T For more information about foods with low glycemic index visit his website http://www.GlycemicIndexLifestyle.com.

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