This question & answer was written by class 3 S of the Ignazio Vian Scientific High School of Anguillara Sabazia (Rome) for Evidence Network Academy.
The glycemic index (IG) is a value that expresses the speed with which the foods containing carbohydrates increase the concentration of glucose in the blood (blood sugar). To be absorbed carbohydrates and pass into blood circulation, they must be transformed into glucose by digestive enzymes. Digestion begins in the mouth with chewing and continues in the first stretch of the intestine, the small intestine, where the foods come after passing in the stomach. The increase in blood sugar, therefore, testifies to the level of absorption of food glucose. It is influenced by various factors.
Various types of carbohydrates. Some of these concern the chemical nature of the carbohydrates contained in them, others the co -presence of other nutrients or nutritional factors. For those suffering from obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes or predial conditions, glycemic index and glycemic load, they can help follow an adequate diet and make more correct and healthy food choices.
