The glycemic index (GI) was devised to measure how quickly the carbohydrate within the food consumed is released into the bloodstream. According to the Glycemic Index Database, chocolate covered almonds have a GI value of 21 and fall into the low GI food category because they release their energy slowly.
Why is the Glycemic Index Important?
Foods with high and low GI values have different effects on your blood sugar levels. High GI foods can cause disturbances, while low GI foods can help to keep them stable over longer periods. After eating a high GI food you may experience a sudden burst of energy as your blood sugar levels rise. This quickly falls away and can leave you feeling tired, weak and hungry. Low GI foods provide a continual supply of energy, which helps to regulate your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling fuller for longer after your meal.
High and Low GI Values
The glycemic index is a scale from zero to 100 and foods are classed as having high, medium or low GIs. High glycemic foods have a value of 70 or above, medium foods have values between 56 and 69 and low GI foods have values of 55 or less. The GI Symbol Programme recommends low GI foods as too many high ones can put you at risk of developing significant health problems.
Chocolate Covered Almonds
Chocolate covered almonds can be purchased in supermarkets, health food shops and sweet shops. A serving of Dove's milk chocolate covered almonds is classed as 13 pieces and contains 220 calories. Be aware that your portion contains 15 g of fat and 6 g of saturated fat per serving, so you should consume chocolate covered almonds as part of a balanced diet.
Comparing Chocolate Almond Snacks
Chocolate covered almonds are an ideal sweet snack as they will not cause your blood sugar levels to spike. Chocolate almond snack bars on the other hand, have a GI of 63, placing them in the medium GI category and are more likely to cause fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.
Alternatives to Chocolate Covered Almonds
If you fancy a change from your usual chocolate covered almonds try chocolate covered peanuts or Brazil nuts as they have similar GI values. You could also try yogurt coated nuts as both are low on the glycemic index.
