I feel that the Glycemic Index, low carbohydrate plans, and associated diet programs seem to be too simplified for the general population. Few people eat just bread or potatoes alone after fasting, which is the only way to measure an accurate blood sugar reading for that specific food in a particular person.

To me, the Glycemic Index simply reinforces the long standing knowledge that consuming complex carbohydrates along with a varied diet is still the best way to lose weight, maintain an ideal weight and reach a healthy lifestyle. At the same time, learning about the Glycemix Index of different foods will teach your something about nutrition. This Glycemic Index Table is a helpful chart. If you study it carefully, you will see that whole grains, fruits and vegetables that are a recommended part of a balanced diet and the USDA Food Pyramid are low GI number foods, while highly processed foods like cold cereals, white flour and sugar are high GI number foods. Diabetics should pay attention to the GI number of foods, since this knowledge can make a significant difference in their health if they are willing to spend time learning about the Index and how it applies to them.

Only you, together with your doctor, can decide what foods are best for you and your overall health. Becoming an informed consumer and learning as much as you can about available diet plans is an important part of your health care. I have found that the best and most reliable information comes from sources which are not making money from the diets they discuss.