The glycemic index system helps categorize foods containing carbohydrates. The glycemic index, created in 1981, classifies foods based on how they affect blood sugar levels, according to the University of Sydney's Glycemic Index Foundation. Wheat berries, a natural whole grain, has a low GI value on the glycemic index scale. They can help meet the United States Department of Agriculture's recommendations of five to eight servings of whole grains a day.
Identification
Wheat berries, the whole kernel of wheat, contain three vital parts of the grain -- the germ, the bran and the endosperm. Because wheat berries are unprocessed, they retain all of their natural nutritional components, such as vitamins, minerals and fiber. A 1/4-cup serving of dry wheat berries contains approximately 142 calories, 5g of protein, 31g of carbohydrates, less than 1g of fat and 5g of fiber, according to the USDA's Nutrient Data Laboratory.
Facts
Scientists measure the GI value of foods in a laboratory setting. After testing subjects and evaluating blood sugar responses, they assign a GI value for the given food. Consumers generally use widely available GI charts to determine the GI value of foods. Wheat berries have a GI value of approximately 46, according to the Glycemic Index Foundation's GI database. This rating places wheat berries low on GI value charts. They can be a healthy part of a low-GI diet.
Features
Adhering to a low-GI diet may have health benefits such as lowered blood sugar and reduced risk of insulin resistance, according to MayoClinic.com. Consuming foods with a low GI value, such as wheat berries, may also help control appetite and contribute to weight loss, MayoClinic.com says. A diet rich in low-glycemic foods may help increase weight loss, reduce body fat percentages and positively affect blood cholesterol, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Benefits
Wheat berries contain a generous amount of dietary fiber, which positively affects health. A serving of wheat berries contains approximately 24 percent of the daily recommendations for fiber, according to the USDA. A diet high in fiber increases satiety, lowers cholesterol, helps prevent colon diseases and aids in weight loss, according to MayoClinic.com.
Considerations
Wheat berries feature a healthy nutritional profile and a low GI level. Consume a diet that incorporates a variety of whole foods to receive the most health benefits. The glycemic index may also be a valuable tool for people with diabetes, according to MayoClinic.com. Wheat berries contain gluten, and people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid them.
