Losing weight is one of the hardest goals Americans annually seek 
to accomplish.  The weight loss industry is huge and incorporates 
every type of fad diet, pill, cream, and lotion possible. 
Instead of falling prey to one of these "lose weight quickly" 
fads, entrust your weight loss into something that will guarantee 
you results:  a low GI diet.

This diet is certainly nothing new and does not require purchase 
of any expensive diet foods that are usually packed with 
preservatives.  A low GI diet is much more than a typical diet-
it is truly a change in your lifestyle, health, and overall well 
being.

What does GI Stand for Anyway?

The "GI" in GI diet stands for Glycemic Index.  The Glycemic 
Index is based on the carbohydrate content of food and how 
quickly those carbohydrates affect your blood glucose level. 
Foods with a high Glycemic Index are quickly digested and turned 
into sugar.  It is no surprise that these foods usually lack 
necessary vitamins or nutrients and contain needless calories and 
fats.  Foods with a high Glycemic Index (foods ranking 70 or 
greater on the scale) include:

 * Foods high in sugar or glucose
 * Baked or mashed potatoes
 * White Rice
 * Regular (not whole grain) bread
 * Cookies, cakes, muffins, doughnuts
 * Junk foods

A Little Thought and Preparation Make a Big Difference

The method of food preparation also affects the Glycemic Index. 
Foods that are cooked or pre-cooked have a higher GI.  For 
example, instant oatmeal or grits have a higher Glycemic Index 
than the same foods cooked in a more traditional manner.  Due to 
this reason, individuals who are on a low GI diet tend to put 
more thought into foods consumed and tend to consume less pre-
cooked, pre-packaged foods filled with preservatives or 
additives.

It's All About Choices

By choosing to consume foods with a low Glycemic Index, you are 
making a conscious effort to consume foods that are nutritious 
and good for you.  This diet is also critical for individuals 
with diabetes or other conditions that make it necessary to 
monitor their blood sugar levels.  Make the conscious commitment 
to embark on a low GI diet and create a healthy lifestyle.

What foods are classified as low GI?  You will certainly be 
surprised with the incredibly long list of options available to 
individuals currently pursuing a low GI diet!  These low GI (55 
or less) foods include:

 * Most fruits (apples, pears, oranges, berries, etc.)
 * High fiber grains (bran, whole grain wheat's)
 * Pastas
 * Whole milk
 * Low-fat yogurt
 * Lentils
 * Whole grain cereals (Special K, All Bran, etc)

These foods are readily incorporated into a daily diet and 
intermixed with foods that have a medium rank on the Glycemic 
Index between 56 and 69.  These foods should be eaten sparingly, 
thoroughly mixed with the low GI foods.  Such medium GI foods 
include:

 * Boiled potatoes
 * Dried fruits (raisins and apricots)
 * Ice Cream
 * Shortbread cookies

Where's the Meat?

If you are wondering where fresh meat, eggs, cheese, and 
vegetables rank on the Glycemic Index, it is because these foods 
do not contain carbohydrates.  For this reason, they are deemed 
suitable to consume and still abide by the guidelines of the low 
GI diet.  Whether you are a bona fide meat eater or a staunch 
vegetarian, you are sure to succeed on this great diet.

A low GI diet is excellent for any individual wishing to lose 
weight without giving up the foods they love.  This diet will 
allow you to joyfully consume beloved breads and perfect pastas 
without guilt! If you find yourself wanting a lifestyle change 
and are ready to lose weight, you'll definitely want to look for 
more in-depth information on the easily adaptable GI diet.
 

Wesley Atkins is a fitness and nutrition coach and author of 
the "Low GI Diet Breakthrough" ebook. For free tips, weight 
loss information, or to find out more about his book, visit:
http://www.lowgidietbreakthrough.com