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Have you ever felt tired and hungry after a meal, even though you ate a lot of food? Or have you experienced a sudden spike in your energy level followed by a crash? If so, it may be related to the glycemic index and glycemic load of the food you ate. In this blog, we will discuss the glycemic index and glycemic load, how they affect our bodies, and how we can use this information to make better food choices. What is the Glycemic Index? The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels. The scale ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a faster and more significant rise in blood sugar levels. Pure glucose has a GI of 100, while foods with a GI of 55 or less are considered low-GI foods, and those with a GI of 70 or higher are high-GI foods. What is a Glycemic Load? Glycemic load (GL) is a measure that takes into account the number of carbohydrates in a serving of food and the GI of those carbohydrates. GL gives a more accurate picture of how food affects blood sugar levels than GI alone. The formula for calculating GL is: GL = GI/100 x Net Carbohydrates per Serving Net Carbohydrates = Total Carbohydrates – Fiber Foods with a GL of 10 or less are considered low-GL foods, while those with a GL of 20 or more are high-GL foods. How Do GI and GL Affect Our Body? When we eat carbohydrate-containing food, it gets broken down into glucose, which enters our bloodstream and provides energy to our bodies. However, if the glucose levels in our bloodstream rise too quickly, our body releases insulin to bring them down. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose enter our cells to be used for energy or stored for later use. When our body releases too much insulin, it can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, which can make us feel tired, hungry, and irritable. Foods with a high GI and GL can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, which leads to a surge of insulin. This sudden spike in insulin can result in a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, which can leave us feeling tired and hungry soon after eating. On the other hand, foods with a low GI and GL release glucose into our bloodstream more slowly, leading to a gradual rise and fall in blood sugar levels, keeping us feeling full and energized for a more extended period. How Can We Use GI and GL to Make Better Food Choices? Now that we understand the significance of GI and GL let us use this information to make better food choices. Here are some tips to get started: Choose whole foods: Whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, are naturally low-GI and low-GL. They are also rich in fibre, which slows down the release of glucose into our bloodstream. Limit refined and processed foods: Refined and processed foods, such as white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, are typically high-GI and high-GL. They are also low in fibre, which means they release glucose into our bloodstream quickly. Pair high-GI foods with low-GI foods: If you must eat high-GI foods, try to pair them with low-GI foods to slow down the release of glucose into your bloodstream. For example, have a piece of fruit with a handful of nuts or add some protein to your meal. Use the GL to guide your portion sizes: Even low-GI foods can cause a significant spike in blood sugar levels if consumed in large quantities. Use the GL to guide your portion sizes and choose foods with a lower GL. Consider the cooking method: The way you cook your food can affect its GI. For example, cooking pasta al dente, or slightly undercooked, can lower its GI compared to fully cooked pasta. Be mindful of snacks and drinks: Many snacks and beverages, such as sodas, candy, and chips, are high in sugar and have a high GI and GL. Consider healthier options like fresh fruit, nuts, or plain yoghurt. Final Thoughts Understanding the glycemic index and glycemic load of our foods can help us make healthier food choices and maintain stable blood sugar levels. By choosing whole foods, limiting processed foods, pairing high-GI foods with low-GI foods, and using the GL to guide portion sizes, we can improve our overall health and well-being. So, next time you reach for a snack or plan a meal, keep the GI and GL in mind and make choices that support your health and energy levels.
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While it's best to get nutrients from food, some people may benefit from taking supplements to address specific deficiencies or health concerns. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
Have you ever felt tired and hungry after a meal, even though you ate a lot of food? Or have you experienced a sudden spike in your energy level followed by a crash? If so, it may be related to the glycemic index and glycemic load of the food you ate. In this blog, we will discuss the glycemic index and glycemic load, how they affect our bodies, and how we can use this information to make better food choices.…
4 minutes
|
19 Aug 2023
Editor’s pick
Are you ready to discover how mindful eating can make your gut bacteria do the happy dance and transform you into the superhero of your own health story? When it comes to maintaining a healthy gut, what you eat is just as important as how you eat it. Mindful eating, the practice of paying attention to your food and how it affects your body, can have a positive impact on your gut health. According to a study, mindful eating can…
3 minutes
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19 Aug 2023
Editor’s pick
Planning healthy meals for the week can seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of effort and organization, it can become a seamless and enjoyable process. By preparing meals in advance, you can ensure that you're eating a balanced diet, save money on eating out, and reduce food waste. In this blog, we'll discuss some practical tips on how to plan healthy meals for the week, keeping an Indian perspective in mind. Step 1: Create a Meal Plan…
5 minutes
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13 Aug 2023
Most read
Fats are often considered the enemy of a healthy diet. However, not all fats are bad for you. In fact, healthy fats are an essential component of a well-balanced diet. Consuming the right kind and amount of fats can improve your heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of healthy fats in your diet, their sources, and how to incorporate them into your meals. What are Fats? Fats are a type of…
4 minutes
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29 Jul 2023
Editor’s pick
Seafood is a delicious and nutritious part of a healthy diet. With its unique blend of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, it's no wonder why seafood is a favourite among health enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will dive into the many benefits of seafood and explore why it should be a staple in your diet. Benefits of Eating Seafood Seafood is a nutrient-dense food that can provide numerous health benefits. Here are just a few of…
4 minutes
|
28 Jul 2023
Featured
Calcium is one of the most essential minerals that our body needs to function properly. It plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, healthy muscles, and proper nerve function. Unfortunately, calcium deficiency is quite common in India, and it can lead to several health issues such as osteoporosis, weak bones, and teeth, muscle cramps, and even heart problems. In this blog, we will explore the importance of calcium for Indians and how to not be deficient in…
4 minutes
|
23 Jul 2023
Featured
Food labels provide important information about the nutritional value of the food we eat. They help us make informed decisions about our food choices, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, with so much information on food labels, it can be overwhelming to understand what it all means. In this blog, we will break down the components of a food label and provide you with some tips for reading them. Serving Size The serving size is the first…
3 minutes
|
25 May 2023
Featured
Burning pain behind the breastbone, in the upper abdomen, and in the chest are common symptoms of acid reflux. If you frequently experience these, you know that the unpleasant sensation of having an acidic or sour taste in the throat can be accompanied by bloating and gas. Many of the unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux can be alleviated by using over-the-counter drugs; however, most antacid medications contain excessive amounts of minerals that affect the pH of your gut and can…
5 minutes
|
25 May 2023
Featured
As the morning light tip-toes its way into our office space, we, at the editorial team of Shyft can’t help but wonder about this marvel that is — sunlight. Not only does it give us warmth and light, but it also provides us with essential nutrients that we need to survive. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why sunlight is so important for humans, and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Importance of Sunlight for Physical…
3 minutes
|
27 Apr 2023
When we think of essential nutrients for our body, vitamins and minerals may come to mind. However, did you know that omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for our overall health? Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that play an important role in brain health and mood regulation. In this blog, we will explore the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in brain health and mood. Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids Before delving into the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, let's understand…
3 minutes
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05 Apr 2023
Most read
Fibre is an essential part of a balanced diet. It's often overlooked, but it plays a vital role in our digestive system and overall health. A diet rich in fibre can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of fibre in a balanced diet, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily meals. What is fibre? Fibre is a type of carbohydrate found in plant-based…
4 minutes
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05 Apr 2023
Whether it's for weight loss or addressing specific health concerns, following a healthy and balanced diet is essential for promoting good health and preventing chronic diseases.
Editor's note: Last month, I tried one of those fancy weighing machines at my friend's house - which measure much more than just your weight - and was shocked to discover the reading - the machine told me my 'metabolic age' was over 40, when I was just in my early thirties! (Compare this to my friend - whose metabolic age turned out to be in her late twenties, despite being the same age as me.) Now, I've been hearing…
10 minutes
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01 Feb 2024
Whether you’re just getting started on your health and fitness journey, or you’re an expert - it’s hard to keep track of all the new diets that are always popping up in the health and fitness world. What’s more, it’s often difficult to know what to trust about the new ‘miracle diet’ that everyone’s raving about. Fear not! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the diets that you could possibly want to try - for you to figure…
4 minutes
|
05 Jan 2024
December marks the height of the holiday season - with Christmas, end-of-year celebrations, weddings and general festive spirit. But it also brings in a challenge familiar to those of us who are trying to manage weight gain or stick to consistent nutrition routines: holiday weight gain. If you’re finding it difficult to keep on track of your health and fitness goals this time of year, you’re not alone. Is holiday weight gain real? Unfortunately, yes. Research has shown that most…
7 minutes
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22 Dec 2023
Editor’s pick
Tired of the fad diets floating around in the market? Fed up with hearing different methods of weight loss being advertised without any health significance? Looking for a sustainable diet to lose weight and also become a healthy and satisfied person? You’ve come to the right place! We are here with one of the most popular and nutritious diets. But don’t let us convince you! Read about its benefits and decide for yourself. What is the Dash Diet? Dietary Approaches…
3 minutes
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19 Aug 2023
Featured
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the connection between nutrition and weight loss. The idea of following a specific diet to lose weight is not new, but the Rainbow Diet takes a different approach, focusing on consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. This approach not only helps with weight loss but also promotes overall health and wellbeing. What is the Rainbow Diet? The Rainbow Diet is a simple concept that involves incorporating a variety…
4 minutes
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13 Aug 2023
Editor’s pick
Welcome to the latest edition of Healthwatch! In this issue, we embark on an exciting journey to decipher the truth behind the buzzworthy health and wellness trends that are taking the world by storm. With social media's influence, it's easy to get caught up in the latest fads, but do these trends stand up to scientific scrutiny? Join us as we delve into five popular trends - from the enigmatic allure of bulletproof coffee to the promise of better sleep…
13 minutes
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08 Aug 2023
Check out our featured articles for a clear understanding of the latest nutrition trends and information. Empowering you to make informed choices that positively impact your health.
Burning pain behind the breastbone, in the upper abdomen, and in the chest are common symptoms of acid reflux. If you frequently experience these, you know that the unpleasant sensation of having an acidic or sour taste in the throat can be accompanied by bloating and gas. Many of the unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux can be alleviated by using over-the-counter drugs; however, most antacid medications contain excessive amounts of minerals that affect the pH of your gut and can… Read more
Featured
Burning pain behind the breastbone, in the upper abdomen, and in the chest are common symptoms of acid reflux. If you frequently experience these, you know that the unpleasant sensation of having an acidic or sour taste in the throat can be accompanied by bloating and gas. Many of the unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux can be alleviated by using over-the-counter drugs; however, most antacid medications contain excessive amounts of minerals that affect the pH of your gut and can…
5 minutes
|
25 May 2023
Featured
Calcium is one of the most essential minerals that our body needs to function properly. It plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, healthy muscles, and proper nerve function. Unfortunately, calcium deficiency is quite common in India, and it can lead to several health issues such as osteoporosis, weak bones, and teeth, muscle cramps, and even heart problems. In this blog, we will explore the importance of calcium for Indians and how to not be deficient in… Read more
Featured
Calcium is one of the most essential minerals that our body needs to function properly. It plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, healthy muscles, and proper nerve function. Unfortunately, calcium deficiency is quite common in India, and it can lead to several health issues such as osteoporosis, weak bones, and teeth, muscle cramps, and even heart problems. In this blog, we will explore the importance of calcium for Indians and how to not be deficient in…
4 minutes
|
23 Jul 2023
Featured
Seafood is a delicious and nutritious part of a healthy diet. With its unique blend of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, it's no wonder why seafood is a favourite among health enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will dive into the many benefits of seafood and explore why it should be a staple in your diet. Benefits of Eating Seafood Seafood is a nutrient-dense food that can provide numerous health benefits. Here are just a few of… Read more
Featured
Seafood is a delicious and nutritious part of a healthy diet. With its unique blend of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, it's no wonder why seafood is a favourite among health enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will dive into the many benefits of seafood and explore why it should be a staple in your diet. Benefits of Eating Seafood Seafood is a nutrient-dense food that can provide numerous health benefits. Here are just a few of…
4 minutes
|
28 Jul 2023
Featured
Food labels provide important information about the nutritional value of the food we eat. They help us make informed decisions about our food choices, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, with so much information on food labels, it can be overwhelming to understand what it all means. In this blog, we will break down the components of a food label and provide you with some tips for reading them. Serving Size The serving size is the first… Read more
Featured
Food labels provide important information about the nutritional value of the food we eat. They help us make informed decisions about our food choices, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, with so much information on food labels, it can be overwhelming to understand what it all means. In this blog, we will break down the components of a food label and provide you with some tips for reading them. Serving Size The serving size is the first…
3 minutes
|
25 May 2023
Featured
Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
Salt is an important part of our diet because it’s our main source of sodium, a mineral necessary for our body, but like carbs, they can be both friend and foe. So what does sodium do for the body? How much salt is too much per day? Which high-sodium foods should you avoid? We’ve done the research to provide all the answers. By the end of this guide, the fourth of our Foundations of Food series, we will unpack everything…
9 minutes
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14 Mar 2024
Editor’s pick
Just like fats and carbs, protein plays a starring role in every person’s nutrition journey. But amidst the ocean of diet tips and health hacks, proteins often get a mixed rep – glorified by some and misunderstood by others. In this comprehensive guide, the third of our Foundations of Food series, we will unpack everything about protein - the difference between ‘complete’ and ‘incomplete’ proteins, how to up your protein intake (especially if you’re a vegetarian), and answering that age-old…
10 minutes
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07 Mar 2024
Editor’s pick
Welcome to our Foundations of Food series – where you can get comprehensive, beginner-friendly guides to the foundations of nutrition, to help you make better, more informed choices about your health. Fats have often been considered the enemy of a healthy diet. But like carbs, they're often misunderstood. Not all fats are bad for you. In fact, healthy fats are an essential component of a well-balanced diet. In this comprehensive guide, the second of our Foundations of Food series, we will unpack…
9 minutes
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01 Feb 2024
Editor’s pick
Welcome to our Foundations of Food series - where you can get comprehensive, beginner-friendly guides to the foundations of nutrition, to help you make better, more informed choices about your health. Carbs, or carbohydrates, are often the subject of debate in the world of nutrition - ranging from being called ‘essential’ to your diet to being labeled as ‘harmful’. There’s so much information out there to sift through that it often becomes hard to know what to believe. In this…
12 minutes
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17 Jan 2024
Editor’s pick
Whether you’re just getting started on your health and fitness journey, or you’re an expert - it’s hard to keep track of all the new diets that are always popping up in the health and fitness world. What’s more, it’s often difficult to know what to trust about the new ‘miracle diet’ that everyone’s raving about. Fear not! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the diets that you could possibly want to try - for you to figure…
4 minutes
|
05 Jan 2024
December marks the height of the holiday season - with Christmas, end-of-year celebrations, weddings and general festive spirit. But it also brings in a challenge familiar to those of us who are trying to manage weight gain or stick to consistent nutrition routines: holiday weight gain. If you’re finding it difficult to keep on track of your health and fitness goals this time of year, you’re not alone. Is holiday weight gain real? Unfortunately, yes. Research has shown that most…
7 minutes
|
22 Dec 2023
Editor’s pick
Food allergies can be life-threatening, and it's important to identify and avoid trigger foods. Food intolerances can also cause uncomfortable symptoms, and working with a healthcare provider can help identify and manage these sensitivities.
Is it common for you to experience bad gas, bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps after eating cheese or consuming a glass of milk? If so, you may be lactose intolerant. The manifestations of this condition may be embarrassing and put you into tough situations. However, with proper precaution and care you can save yourself from being caught with an egg on your face. The science behind it.. The sugar found in milk is called lactose. Lactase is an enzyme, made…
4 minutes
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15 Aug 2023
Most read
Who doesn’t love eggs? Sunny side up, Omelettes, boiled eggs, and eggs benedict make up for the perfect breakfast. Almost all nutritional advice starts with eggs for breakfast. Many of our favourite things to eat like cakes and muffins may contain eggs. But have you often noticed your child developing rashes or a runny nose after an egg-based meal? For kids, eggs are a common allergen. While finding out your child has an allergy to a common food item can…
5 minutes
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26 May 2023
Featured
Allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. Simply put, an allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is normally harmless. While allergies can develop at any age, they typically start in childhood and may persist or even worsen as a person ages. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the most common allergies, their symptoms, causes, and treatments. 1. Seasonal Allergies Seasonal…
4 minutes
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11 Apr 2023
Featured
Have you ever felt the sensation of itching or burning as soon as you come into contact with rubber gloves? Does your throat begin to close up when you try to blow air into a balloon? Can a simple stethoscope check make your heartbeat regular and bring on a bout of nausea? If you have experienced any of these issues you may be allergic to latex. Latex is a common constituent of several medical and consumer items such as bath…
4 minutes
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06 Apr 2023
Most read
Being allergic to peanuts is one of the most frequent causes of life-threatening allergic reactions. Those who are allergic to peanuts may have a severe reaction to even the smallest untraceable amounts of peanuts(anaphylaxis). Child peanut allergies have been on the rise. If you or your child is suffering from peanut allergies and you are trying to incorporate changes to make your life easier then this guide is for you! If you are allergic to peanuts then you have an…
4 minutes
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06 Apr 2023
Have you ever felt a stomach ache coming on when you eat bread? Do you notice rashes on your body after you enjoy pasta? Are hives a common occurrence after you’ve consumed your morning cereals? If these situations seem familiar, you might be allergic to wheat. Wheat allergy is among the most prevalent types of allergic reactions, affecting millions of people across the globe. Eliminating wheat from your diet may seem like a small feat to others but it is…
4 minutes
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06 Apr 2023
A healthy digestive system is essential for nutrient absorption and overall health. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough fiber can help promote digestive health.
Are you tired of feeling bloated, sluggish, and just generally ‘off’? It could be your gut. Hey there! You might not know it, but your gut health is super important for your overall well-being. It's like a little ecosystem in your belly, with trillions of tiny creatures living in it. When these creatures get out of balance, it can cause all sorts of problems, like tummy troubles, inflammation, and even mental health issues. But don't worry, we've got you covered!…
4 minutes
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29 Jul 2023
Featured
Are you tired of constantly sneezing and coughing due to allergies or asthma? Have you ever considered that the solution might be in your gut? That's right, the health of your gut can play a significant role in the development and management of allergies and asthma. Studies have shown that the human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. This gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, including immune function. However,…
4 minutes
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28 Jul 2023
Most read
Did you know that the health of your gut can affect the health of your entire body, including your immune system? It's true! Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, which play a critical role in regulating your immune system and protecting you from disease. But when your gut health is compromised, it can lead to a host of health problems, including autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system attacks healthy cells in your body. There are…
4 minutes
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23 Jul 2023
Featured
Antibiotics: the life-saving wonder drugs that can also wreak havoc on your gut health. Antibiotics are one of the most revolutionary discoveries of modern medicine. They have saved countless lives by fighting off deadly bacterial infections. However, despite their life-saving abilities, antibiotics can have some unintended consequences on our gut health. The gut microbiome is a vast collection of microorganisms that reside in our digestive system, consisting of trillions of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms. These microorganisms play a…
3 minutes
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06 Apr 2023
Most read
What you eat can have an impact on the health of your skin and hair. Eating a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help keep your skin and hair looking healthy and vibrant.
As the morning light tip-toes its way into our office space, we, at the editorial team of Shyft can’t help but wonder about this marvel that is — sunlight. Not only does it give us warmth and light, but it also provides us with essential nutrients that we need to survive. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why sunlight is so important for humans, and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Importance of Sunlight for Physical…
3 minutes
|
27 Apr 2023
We often consider topical treatments like cleansers, toners, and moisturisers when maintaining healthy skin. But did you know - what goes in your gut can significantly impact your skin's health? That's right! The gut-skin connection is accurate, and it's time to start paying attention to it. Why does gut health matter for healthy skin? The gut and the skin are both organs of elimination. It’s essential to understand if your gut is healthy or not. When one isn't functioning correctly,…
3 minutes
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17 Apr 2023
Most read
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