FAQ
What is the Glycemic Index? Is the Nutrisystem plan low carb?
The Nutrisystem weight loss program integrates the science of the Glycemic Index, which measures the quality of carbohydrates and how they impact your blood sugar levels. The plan for weight loss features “good carbs” (low to medium glycemic grocery items), but it is not a low carb diet meal plan. We take a balanced approach to macronutrients.
Carbohydrates that break down slowly encourage stable blood sugar levels, so they rate “low” on the Glycemic Index. The slow and steady breakdown of low glycemic carbs helps to sustain energy levels and promotes a greater feeling of fullness.
On the other hand, carbohydrates that breakdown quickly cause your blood sugar levels to rapidly spike and crash, so the carbs rate “high” on the Glycemic Index. The rapid spikes in blood sugar levels from high glycemic carbs leave your body primed to store fat, while the crashes that follow leave you tired and hungry.
Food high in protein, fat or fiber typically have a lower Glycemic Index. Food high in refined carbs and sugar have a higher glycemic value. Foods that contain no carbs (meat, herbs, spices, and oils) do not have a glycemic value because of their minimal impact on blood sugar levels.
If you’re looking to lose weight, you should minimize high glycemic carbs and instead, seek to incorporate more lower glycemic options into your diet to help keep your blood sugar levels stable and your appetite in check. With the recommended combination of low to medium glycemic grocery items and the high protein, high fiber Nutrisystem® meal plan, we do the work for you.
