Many dieters are confused about how meal delivery diets such as Nutrisystem work because the groundwork is done for you, even though you log your meals. Nutrisystem works with the glycemic index, which measures the glycemic impact of foods with carbohydrates. This is not the same as a low-carbohydrate diet such as the Atkins diet.
The Glycemic Index
The glycemic index ranks foods on a scale according to how the carbohydrates contained in the food affect the level of glucose in the blood. Foods that score high on the glycemic index add glucose to the bloodstream quickly, which causes a short-lived energy spike followed by a crash. This crash phase is dangerous for dieters because they might binge eat. Low glycemic impact foods are better for dieters because they release glucose into the system at a slower rate, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Glycemic Index Rankings
The glycemic index ranks foods from one to 100. Foods that score 70 and above are high glycemic impact foods and should be avoided in most circumstances. Examples of high-glycemic impact foods are sugary cereals and white breads. Medium glycemic impact foods, such as couscous and white rice, rank between 56 and 69 on the scale. These foods can be eaten in limited quantities. Low glycemic impact foods rank 55 or below and are good choices. Some examples are yogurt and spinach.
How Nutrisystem Works with the Glycemic Index
Nutrisystem pairs foods that score low on the glycemic index with foods that score in the moderate range, and you may eat these items at specific times in the day. The timing of the foods is designed to stabilizes your blood sugar and keep you from feeling hungry. Nutrisystem provides clients with a list of grocery additions that identifies which vegetables, fruits, dairy, grains and proteins they can eat, as well as the quantities they can have.
The Differences Between Nutrisystem and Low-Carb Diets
Nutrisystem does not completely restrict carbohydrates, which allows you to eat a balanced diet. Permissible grain or pasta items include whole wheat tortillas and whole grain breads or pastas. These items are high in carbohydrates but do not have a large impact on your blood glucose level. Low-carb diets such as the Atkins plan consider all carbohydrates negative and restricts them with no consideration of the glycemic index.
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