So, what’s the big deal about Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load as far as a healthy diet is the case?

So, what’s the big deal about Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load as far as a healthy diet is the case?

We at KFS Rx Meals are about heathy lifestyle products choices that are science based with Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load at the heart.

So who is KFS Rx Meals and why should you consider such a newbie like KFS Rx Meals as your go to for healthy lifestyle condiments, ready-to-heat N’Serve and ready-to-cook meals if you are pre-diabetic, diabetic, worry about your weight or looking for a healthy diets provider to recommend to a love one with any of above conditions or just want to eat healthy?

Here are the reasons why, all KFS Rx Meals meals and products are guaranteed to have: -

1. A low Glycemic Index.
2. A low Glycemic Load

So, what’s the big deal about these two as far as a healthy diet is concerned?

Let’s start with Glycemic Index

In simple terms, glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels. What? What foods are considered carbohydrate-containing food?  On a global scale, a significant portion of the human diet consists of carbohydrates. Foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and dairy products.

So, any carbohydrate-containing foods has the potential to raise your blood glucose levels. Which means, foods with a high glycemic index are rapidly digested and absorbed, causing a quick and large increase in blood sugar levels.

On the other hand, foods with a low glycemic index are digested and absorbed more slowly, leading to a slower and smaller rise in blood sugar levels.

So, knowing the glycemic index of the foods you eat, can be particularly important for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes and its comorbidities such as: -

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Individuals with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, including conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and stroke.
2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diabetes and high blood pressure often coexist. Both conditions are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and can contribute to kidney disease.
3. Dyslipidemia: Diabetes can lead to abnormal levels of lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
4. Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease. Persistent high blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time.
5. Eye Complications (Diabetic Retinopathy): Diabetes can affect the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness.
6. Neuropathy: Nerve damage (neuropathy) is a common complication of diabetes. It can affect various parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain.
7. Foot Problems: Diabetes can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage in the feet, increasing the risk of foot ulcers and infections.
8. Skin Conditions: People with diabetes may be more prone to skin problems, including bacterial and fungal infections.
9. Gastrointestinal Issues: Diabetes can affect the digestive system, leading to issues such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) and other gastrointestinal complications.
10. Depression and Anxiety: There is an increased risk of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, in individuals with diabetes.
11. Sleep Apnea: There is a higher prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in people with diabetes compared to the general population.
12. Cognitive Decline: Some studies suggest a link between diabetes and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

It's important to note that not everyone with diabetes will develop these comorbidities, and the risk can be influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and the management of diabetes. Proper management of blood sugar levels, making healthy lifestyle choices like regular exercise, weight management, eating healthy diets, and regular medical check-ups are crucial for preventing and managing these comorbidities associated with diabetes.

Individuals with diabetes should work closely with healthcare professionals to address and monitor these potential complications and surprise surprise KFS Rx Meals can help.

Now that we have some basic knowledge why it’s a big deal at KFS Rx Meals to ensure that all their products and meals have low glycemic index. We even go further to offer our clients with a mobile app and devices that helps them track and monitor their blood sugar, blood pressure, body weight and activities levels.

In our next article, we will look at Glycemic Load…. watch this space!