Definition:

The glycemic index is a method of rating foods by how much they raise blood glucose. The glycemic index uses a scale from 1 to 100, with high glycemic numbers indicating foods that raise blood sugar higher and faster than foods with low glycemic numbers.

Carbohydrates in food raise blood sugar, so the glycemic index can help when planning meals.

Sugar, candy, and other sweet foods like cake and cookies have a high glycemic index. Whole grains, most vegetables, some fruits and other non-sweet, non-starchy foods have a lower glycemic index.