GlucoseMealplan.com

Glycemic Index guide

Understand how foods affect your blood sugar

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.

Low GI0–55

Safe daily choices — the base of a glucose-friendly plate.

Medium GI56–69

Enjoy in moderation, always alongside protein or healthy fat.

High GI70+

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.

01

Add healthy fat

A drizzle of olive oil, avocado, nuts or seeds slows digestion and softens the sugar peak.

02

Add protein

Eggs, fish, chicken, cottage cheese or legumes stretch the glucose response over a longer window.

03

Add fibre

Vegetables, salad, whole grains and beans trap sugars in the gut so they release gradually.