glycemic index

noun

: a measure of the rate at which ingested food causes the level of glucose in the blood to rise

also : a ranking of foods according to the glycemic index

—abbreviation GI

Examples of glycemic index in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Foods with a low glycemic index do not spike blood sugar and insulin levels. —Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 17 Dec. 2024

Avoid or limit foods and beverages with a high glycemic index (GI), including white bread, rice, potatoes, sodas, and fruit juices. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 25 Oct. 2024

Oats have a low glycemic index, releasing energy slowly and helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024

May Improve Blood Sugar Control Raisins contain a significant amount of fructose, a type of sugar with a low glycemic index (GI). —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 29 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

glycemic index

noun

: a measure of the rate at which an ingested food causes the level of glucose in the blood to rise

the insulin response caused by carbohydrate depends on the glycemic index … of the food

—Trevor Smith

also : a ranking of foods according to their glycemic index

—abbreviation GI