Glycemic Impact Diet

     The "Glycemic Impact Diet" is a decreased carbohydrate diet based on the glycemic index of foods. The index measures and categorizes carbohydrates based on their glycemic or sugar levels. Simple carbohydrates such as white sugar and flour are at one end of the index and complex carbohydrates such as vegetables and whole grains are on the other. The basics of the diet are similar to the South Beach Diet, The Zone, Sugar Busters, and to a lesser degree the Atkins Diet.

     The basic theory is that simple carbohydrates make you retain fat and raise your insulin levels. These diets are healthy, but they are highly restrictive, which creates a fundamental problem in the long-term. Most people fall off the wagon and end up gaining the weight back. I think we all know what that's like. Thinking you can cut out sugar and white flour from your diet forever is a fantasy for most people.

     The glycemic index and its recommendations to replace simple carbohydrates with complex ones is a great idea, but probably best followed in moderation for your own mental ability to sustain a lifestyle change. The bottom line is that decreased caloric intake and increased daily exercise is the most sensible and sustainable strategy.

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