Glycemic Index Calculator
The Glycemic Index (GI) measures how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels. Understanding the GI of your meals can help manage diabetes, support weight loss, and improve overall health.
Calculate Your Meal's Glycemic Impact
Your Meal
Your Results
Glycemic Index (GI)
Glycemic Load (GL)
GL measures both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in your meal.
What does this mean?
Personalized Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
The Glycemic Index (GI) is a ranking system from 0-100 that measures how quickly carbohydrates in food raise blood glucose levels compared to pure glucose. Foods with a high GI are rapidly digested and cause significant fluctuations in blood sugar, while low GI foods produce a slower, more gradual effect.
While Glycemic Index (GI) measures how quickly a specific food raises blood sugar, Glycemic Load (GL) takes into account both the GI and the amount of carbohydrates in a serving. GL = (GI × Carbs per serving) ÷ 100. GL provides a more accurate picture of how a food affects blood sugar in real-world portions.
This calculator uses a database of established GI values for common foods. While it provides a good estimate, individual responses to foods can vary based on factors like cooking methods, ripeness, and personal metabolism. The calculator is intended as a guide rather than a precise medical tool.
- Add protein, healthy fats, or fiber to carbohydrate-rich foods
- Choose whole grains over refined grains
- Include vinegar or lemon juice in meals (acidity slows digestion)
- Don't overcook pasta, rice, or vegetables
- Include beans, lentils, and other legumes in your diet
- Eat fruits whole rather than as juice
Understanding the GI of foods can be particularly beneficial for:
- People with diabetes or pre-diabetes
- Those trying to lose weight
- Athletes looking to optimize energy levels
- People with PCOS or insulin resistance
- Anyone interested in maintaining stable energy throughout the day