What is the Glycemic Load?

The Glycemic Load (GL) is a measurement that takes into account both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in a food item. It is specifically calculated by dividing the Glycemic Index (GI) of a food by 100 and then multiplying the result by the available grams of carbohydrates in a typical serving size.

This calculation is significant because the Glycemic Index alone only provides information on how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels, but does not account for the serving size. By incorporating both the GI and the amount of carbohydrate, Glycemic Load offers a more complete picture of a food's impact on blood sugar.

Using this method allows individuals, particularly those with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, to better manage their intake. Foods with a low Glycemic Load are generally considered better choices for maintaining stable blood sugar levels, as they result in a slower and more gradual rise in glucose levels compared to foods with a higher Glycemic Load.