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Glycemic
Index
The Glycemic Index is a ranking of carbohydrates based on their
immediate effect on blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. Carbohydrates
that break down quickly during digestion have the highest Glycemic
Index. The blood glucose response is fast and high. Carbohydrates
that break down slowly, releasing glucose gradually into the blood
stream, have a low Glycemic Index.
Low Glycemic Index foods, by virtue of their slow digestion and
absorption, produce gradual rises in blood sugar and insulin levels,
and have proven benefits for health. Low Glycemic Index diets have
been shown to improve both glucose and lipid levels in people with
diabetes.They also benefit weight management by helping to control
appetite and delay hunger.
What is the Significance of a Low Glycemic Index? A
low Glycemic Index diet means a smaller rise in blood glucose levels
after meals. This can help people lose weight, improve the body’s
sensitivity to insulin, re-fuel carbohydrate stores after exercise,
keep people full longer, and increase physical endurance.
Typical Beverages and the Glycemic Index: One
of the contributing factors to a high Glycemic Index diet is relying
on drinks comprised solely of carbohydrates or simple sugars. These
total sugar drinks, which include most fruit juices, soft drinks,
and sports drinks, get absorbed quickly, causing an immediate rise
in blood glucose. This process triggers the release of insulin
as well as of various hormones. In turn, these generate free fatty
acids (FFAs), unwanted fat cells that circulate in our bloodstream.
Interestingly, the consumption of fats and proteins, along with
sugars, has been shown to prolong absorption time and decrease
insulin releases (Am J Clin nutr 2002 Jenkins et al.) This actually
mimics what happens when someone consumes a complete meal. Blood
sugar rises gradually, and insulin resistance decreases more slowly.
In turn, there is less weight gain, despite the added calories
from the fats and proteins (Paolisso et al.)
Zola Açaí and the Glycemic Index: Zola
Açaí contains the naturally occurring carbohydrates
of the Açaí berry as well as protein, fat, and natural
vitamin E. These are often effective at preventing the typical
drop in blood sugar that occurs after rapid insulin release, leading
to fatigue and a loss of energy.
Zola Açaí thus perfectly balances nutrition from
Mother Nature with a low Glycemic Index diet.
References:
- Home of the Glycemic Index (www.glycemicindex.com)
- Franz, Marion J. "Protein Controversies in Diabetes." Diabetes
Spectrum, Volume 13, Number 3, 2000, pages 132-141. The
URL is http://journal.diabetes.org/diabetesspectrum/00v13n3/pg132.htm
- Jennie Brand Miller, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Human Nutrition
University, Sydney, Australia “The Glucose Revolution,” Marlowe
and Co., 1999
- Gannon MC, Nuttall JA, Damberg G, Grupta V, Nuttall FQ. “Effect
of Protein Ingestion on the Glucose Appearance Rate in People
with Type 2 Diabetes.” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
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