GI Diet: The Basics

By: Allrecipes Staff

The Glycemic Index Diet groups foods based on how easily they're converted to energy by the body.

GI Menus: Braised Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic vinegar and tomatoes give a sweet taste to this braised chicken. Serve with brown rice and beets and greens.

Braised Balsamic Chicken

Linguini with Broccoli and Red Peppers

This meal makes it easy to eat delicious and healthy fare on nights when you have little time for dinner. Use whole-wheat pasta for added nutrition.

Linguini with Broccoli and Red Peppers

Chinese-Style Steamed Fish and Peppered Green Beans

Steaming fish with ginger, garlic, and green onions gives it lots of flavor. Serve with green beans and brown rice for a complete meal.

Chinese-Style Steamed Fish and Peppered Green Beans

Foods that take longer to break down help you feel fuller longer and help you avoid cravings and overeating. Dieters are encouraged to limit over-processed and nutrient-lacking foods that leave you hungry for the next snack.

How to Eat to Lose:

Foods are assigned to "green," "yellow," and "red" groups giving you an eating traffic light.

You can eat as much of the green foods--such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products--as you like.
The red group includes high-starch potatoes, breads, and convenience foods like processed cereals, snacks and cookies.

Many recipes designed for diabetics are suitable for people watching their glycemic index.