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

Pretzels Foods made with refined grains and sugars have a higher glycemic index (GI), a food's ability to raise blood sugar levels. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Rdn, Health, 16 Apr. 2025

Change your diet: Foods with a high glycemic index (those that spike your blood sugar, like bread, rice, and potatoes) have been shown to increase androgen levels and exacerbate acne.2 Manage stress: Stress can cause androgen levels to increase, causing acne. —Susan Bard, Verywell Health, 28 Mar. 2025

With a low glycemic index (GI), raspberries cause a slower rise in blood sugar compared to high-GI foods, reducing the risk of sharp spikes and crashes. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2025

Sourdough may be more blood-sugar-friendly due to its lower glycemic index. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 11 Mar. 2025

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