What is the glycemic index of jelly?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of jelly is 78. This is considered high. By looking up jelly in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat jelly, your blood sugar levels will rise quickly. This is because of the high glycemic index of jelly. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat jelly?
Because of its high glycemic index, jelly can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This can make it challenging for individuals with diabetes, who need to manage their blood sugar levels carefully. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if jelly can fit into your diet and to discuss potential alternatives that may have a lower glycemic index. This is not medical advice, and you should always speak to a healthcare provider for personalized dietary guidance.
What are the health benefits of jelly?
Jelly is often enjoyed for its sweet taste and can be used as a spread or ingredient in various dishes. Some jellies contain fruit, which can provide some vitamins and antioxidants. However, it is important to note that many commercial jellies are high in added sugars and may contain artificial ingredients. Opting for jellies made from real fruit and without added sugars can offer more nutritional benefits.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for jelly (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 13 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Calcium: 0 milligrams
- Potassium: 15 milligrams
- Sodium: 5 milligrams
- Vitamin C: 0 milligrams
What are some healthy alternatives to jelly?
For those seeking healthier alternatives to jelly, consider using fresh fruit spreads or whole fruit, such as mashed berries or sliced bananas, which can provide natural sweetness along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Another great option is to use nut butters, like almond or peanut butter, which offer healthy fats and protein. Additionally, chia seed jam made with chia seeds and fruit can be a nutrient-dense alternative with added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Conclusion
While jelly can be a delightful addition to various foods, its high glycemic index means it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Individuals, especially those with diabetes, should be mindful of their intake and consider healthier alternatives. Using the January app to monitor glycemic indexes and glycemic loads can provide valuable insights for making informed dietary choices.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Jelly
Does the fruit base in jelly impact its glycemic index?
Yes, the type of fruit used as a base in jelly can slightly impact its glycemic index. Fruits with higher natural sugar content, like grapes, can result in a jelly with a slightly higher glycemic index compared to those made with strawberries or apples. However, once processed with sugars and pectin, most jellies tend to fall in a similar high glycemic range.
Is there a difference in the glycemic index of homemade jelly versus store-bought jelly?
Interestingly, homemade jelly may have a lower glycemic index compared to store-bought jelly. This is because homemade versions often contain less added sugar and use natural pectins, whereas commercial jellies are often made with high-fructose corn syrup and other additives that increase their glycemic index.
Does the time of day affect the blood sugar impact of consuming jelly?
While the glycemic index of jelly remains constant, the impact on blood sugar can vary based on the time of day and what else is consumed. Eating jelly in the morning alongside high-fiber foods may result in a slower glucose release compared to consuming it as a standalone snack in the evening. The body's insulin sensitivity also fluctuates throughout the day, typically being higher in the morning.
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