Diabetes: Helping Yourself Naturally Using the Glycemic Index by Andrew Mason

Diabetes is one of our most devastating illnesses and we are waging a constant battle against its effects. In this battle, the glycemic index is an important tool. The index is based on a rating system allocated to a variety of different carbohydrates. Indeed, the index was developed with the plight of people who suffer from type II diabetes in mind. The plan enables those who suffer from this condition around the world to have a dietary option.

We need to manage the amount of carbohydrates that we eat, so that we measure our glycemic response in order to tackle this illness. We have to be able to control insulin and to regulate our blood glucose levels. This is a thorny problem, of course, but if we follow the readings of the glycemic index, the food category, the portion size and the way that we prepare our meals, we have a good chance of success.

16 million or so have type II diabetes around the world and we can see an increasing number of people who fall victim to this condition every year. It is more likely to affect those who weigh too much, are obese or have other health issues, each of whom have a much greater chance of developing the illness. It can in turn lead to heart disease, cancers or other issues, unfortunately.

We need to be on the lookout for a variety of symptoms to warn us of the approach of diabetes. Something known as the Metabolic X Syndrome centers around an elevated level of triglycerides or blood fat, high blood pressure, low levels of HDL, weight problems and resistance to insulin.

Calculate a glycemic index by referring to the guidelines. You will find that each food has a number between zero and 100 and anyone who wants to avoid diabetes or to control it should steer clear of any foods that have a rating of 70 or higher. It is recommended that the daily diet is composed of low and medium rated carbohydrates.

Generally, foods that are found toward the top of the index are simple carbs such as white bread, while your allies in this battle are the fruits and vegetables found toward the bottom. Foods that have a high glycemic load must be avoided, or you will get peaks and troughs in your blood glucose levels, which in turn will create excess insulin. The pancreas will be highly stressed as it tries to develop so much insulin and this is known to be a trigger factor for the onset of type II diabetes.

To exercise total control over all conditions, we need to calculate a glycemic load as well as a glycemic index for each and every carbohydrate. This involves an analysis of the way that we prepare our food and teaches us that we have to not only regulate our carbohydrate quantity, but look at the quality of the foods that we are preparing as well.

If you are suffering from type I or type II diabetes, a low GI is your major consideration. We can regulate glucose levels in blood sugar every day. Never be tempted to load up on food portions and be very careful about how you count your calories, so you can manage your body weight and regulate diabetes effectively.