glycemic index

noun

: a measure of the rate at which ingested food causes the level of glucose in the blood to rise

also : a ranking of foods according to the glycemic index

—abbreviation GI

Examples of glycemic index in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Overnight Oats Have a Low Glycemic Index Although overnight oats are high in carbohydrates, their high fiber content results in a low glycemic index (GI). —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 31 Mar. 2026

Chickpea or lentil pasta delivers higher protein, a lower glycemic index and stays gluten-free. —Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Mar. 2026

Whole wheat, chickpea or lentil versions can offer higher protein, a lower glycemic index and are gluten-free. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 18 Mar. 2026

Chickpea or lentil pasta delivers higher protein and a lower glycemic index while staying gluten-free. —Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 18 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

glycemic index

noun

: a measure of the rate at which an ingested food causes the level of glucose in the blood to rise

the insulin response caused by carbohydrate depends on the glycemic index … of the food

—Trevor Smith

also : a ranking of foods according to their glycemic index

—abbreviation GI