• Foods high in sugar or glucose• Baked or mashed potatoes• White Rice• Regular (not whole grain) bread• Cookies, cakes, muffins, doughnuts• Junk foodsA Little Thought and Preparation Make a Big DifferenceThe method of food preparation also affects the Glycemic Index. Foods that are cooked or pre-cooked have a higher GI. For example, instant oatmeal or grits have a higher Glycemic Index than the same foods cooked in a more traditional manner. Due to this reason, individuals who are on a low GI diet tend to put more thought into foods consumed and tend to consume less pre-cooked, pre-packaged foods filled with preservatives or additives.

What foods are classified as low GI? You will certainly be surprised with the incredibly long list of options available to individuals currently pursuing a low GI diet! These low GI (55 or less) foods include:

• Most fruits (apples, pears, oranges, berries, etc.)
• High fiber grains (bran, whole grain wheat’s)
• Pastas
• Whole milk
• Low-fat yogurt
• Lentils
• Whole grain cereals (Special K, All Bran, etc)

If you are wondering where fresh meat, eggs, cheese, and vegetables rank on the Glycemic Index, it is because these foods do not contain carbohydrates. For this reason, they are deemed suitable to consume and still abide by the guidelines of the low GI diet. Whether you are a bona fide meat eater or a staunch vegetarian, you are sure to succeed on this great diet.