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

Hassick noted that pasta tends to raise blood sugar more gradually than foods like white bread or sweets, thanks to its naturally lower glycemic index. —Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 May 2026

Key Takeaways Instant oats are flatter and smaller, which gives them a higher glycemic index and raises blood sugar levels faster. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 19 May 2026

These include dietary factors like dairy or high–glycemic index foods, psychological stress and changes in the skin microbiome. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 11 May 2026

Mango has a moderate glycemic index but a low glycemic load, so moderate portions usually have a small effect on blood sugar. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 May 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