Carbohydrates that breakdown quickly during digestion have the highest glycemic indices and are known as simple sugars. The blood glucose response is fast. Carbohydrates that breakdown slowly, releasing glucose gradually into the blood stream, have low glycemic indices and are known as complex carbohydrates or starches.

Glucose has a glycemic index value of 100.

Glycemic values for other foods:

• 85: Baked potato
• 65: White rice
• 50: Sweet potato
• 46: Orange juice
• 45: Brown rice
• 30: Oatmeal
• 25: Plum