All carbohydrate rich food that you consume does not have the same effect on the level of blood sugar. The glycemic index helps you understand the difference by listing the carbohydrates according to their ranks. Not only people who are obese or genetically prone to diabetes can make good use of the Glycemic index – it can help even healthy people eat better and be more aware of the impact on their bodies when they consume carbohydrates. It is equally important for all of us to keep a check on blood sugar levels, and find out which food causes fewer fluctuations in insulin and blood sugar levels. Foods can be segregated into three categories - high GI foods, medium and low GI foods.

If the foods you are consuming are all high GI foods, then it is going to have a detrimental effect on your health over time. The low GI foods have a number of positive effects, especially in diabetes prevention. They aid in weight loss and also increase the insulin sensitivity of your body. You feel less hungry after consuming low glycemic index foods (and you stay fuller for longer) and the stamina of the body is enhanced greatly. Bran, barley, oats and whole grains are few low glycemic index foods.