What is the Glycemic Index?
The Glycemic Index (GI) ranks carbohydrate foods from 0 to 100 based on how quickly they raise blood glucose. Low-GI foods (0–55) release sugar slowly and keep energy steady. Medium-GI foods (56–69) cause a moderate rise. High-GI foods (70+) spike glucose fast and are best combined with fat, protein or fibre.
Safe daily choices — the base of a glucose-friendly plate.
Enjoy in moderation, always alongside protein or healthy fat.
Save for special moments and pair with fibre, fat and protein.
Food overview
- ChickpeasGI 28Low GI
Make hummus or roast with spices for a low-GI snack.
- Black beansGI 30Low GI
A perfect base for chili, bowls and salads.
- LentilsGI 32Low GI
Fibre and plant protein powerhouse — flatten the glucose curve.
- Semi-skimmed milkGI 34Low GI
Protein and fat keep the GI low — good with oats or coffee.
- Plain yoghurtGI 35Low GI
Choose full-fat unsweetened — sweetened versions push GI up fast.
- AppleGI 36Low GI
Eat with the skin and a handful of nuts for the perfect snack.
- Cooked carrotsGI 39Low GI
Great source of fibre and beta-carotene — stays low on GI.
- StrawberriesGI 40Low GI
One of the safest fruit choices for stable glucose.
- Dark chocolate (70%+)GI 40Low GI
A small square with almonds is a satisfying low-GI treat.
- OrangeGI 43Low GI
Eat the whole fruit rather than juice — fibre keeps the GI low.
- Pasta (al dente)GI 45Low GI
Firm cooking + olive oil + protein-rich sauce = friendly for glucose.
- BulgurGI 48Low GI
Great in tabbouleh with parsley, tomato, lemon and olive oil.
- QuinoaGI 53Low GI
Complete protein and low GI — excellent rice replacement.
- Rolled oatsGI 55Low GI
Add chia, nuts and berries for a truly steady breakfast.
- Natural muesliGI 57Medium GI
Read labels — added sugar quickly pushes muesli into the high range.
- Basmati riceGI 58Medium GI
Cook al dente and cool briefly — resistant starch lowers the GI further.
- HoneyGI 61Medium GI
Use sparingly — always with a fat/protein like nut butter.
- Ripe bananaGI 62Medium GI
Prefer slightly under-ripe bananas — the GI is markedly lower.
- Sweet potatoGI 63Medium GI
Roast with olive oil and rosemary; skin adds valuable fibre.
- Cola drinkGI 63Medium GI
Liquid sugar spikes glucose fast — replace with sparkling water and lemon.
- PineappleGI 66Medium GI
Combine with cottage cheese or Greek yoghurt to slow the spike.
- Brown riceGI 68Medium GI
A better base than white rice — combine with beans for even more fibre.
- Wholewheat breadGI 71High GI
Choose stoneground or sourdough versions — they typically score lower.
- White riceGI 73High GI
Serve small portions with vegetables and protein like chicken or fish.
- White breadGI 75High GI
Top with avocado, egg or peanut butter to slow the sugar release.
- French friesGI 75High GI
Save for special occasions — combine with salad and lean protein.
- WatermelonGI 76High GI
High GI but low carb load — a small portion stays glucose-friendly.
- Boiled potatoGI 78High GI
Cool leftovers overnight to build resistant starch that lowers the GI.
- CornflakesGI 81High GI
Swap for oats or muesli with nuts and full-fat yoghurt.
- Rice cakesGI 82High GI
Very high GI on their own — always pair with protein or healthy fat.
Three golden rules
Combine high-GI foods smartly to flatten your glucose curve.
Add healthy fat
A drizzle of olive oil, avocado, nuts or seeds slows digestion and softens the sugar peak.
Add protein
Eggs, fish, chicken, cottage cheese or legumes stretch the glucose response over a longer window.
Add fibre
Vegetables, salad, whole grains and beans trap sugars in the gut so they release gradually.
