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Eat Low-Glycemic-Index Foods
The glycemic index (GI) is a system that ranks carbohydrates in food on a scale from 1 to 100 based on their effect on blood sugar levels. Foods like white bread, white rice, and white potatoes rank higher on the GI than foods like stone-ground whole wheat, brown rice, and nut butters. In addition to causing spikes in blood sugar levels, high-GI foods can stimulate excessive insulin, leading to increased inflammation and blood pressure and higher triglyceride (storage fats) levels; eating these foods may also lead to the sugar blues. To help avoid this, consume carbs in moderation and focus on healthy sources.
From the
July 2012 issue of
O, The Oprah Magazine
