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

Mangoes have a low to moderate glycemic index (GI) score that ranges from 41 to 60.2 The GI measures how quickly foods or drinks with carbohydrates can raise your blood sugar. —Laura Schober, Health, 25 June 2025

This is because honey contains mainly fructose, a type of sugar with a lower glycemic index than glucose and the sucrose found in table sugar. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 25 June 2025

So less of it hits your bloodstream and at a slower rate, which gives it a lower glycemic index, de Juan explains. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 29 May 2025

With a glycemic index of 15, almonds offer a powerful blend of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. —Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025

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