Glycemic Index: The Short Guide On How To Use The Glycemic Index For Athletes
You’ve probably heard someone refer to food being high on the Glycemic Index (GI). The Glycemic Index is a ranking of carbohydrate foods, and how they affect blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates with a low GI value are more slowly digested, causing a stable and slower rise in blood glucose, and a rise in insulin levels. High glycemic foods cause a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels and can lead to unwanted weight gain, and energy crash. Athletes need a steady supply of energy and knowing which foods provide that energy is important for athletic performance and outcomes.