Mind Your Munching! Samosa's Glycemic Index Revealed

A samosa has a glycemic index of 60, leading to a medium impact on blood sugar levels.

What is the glycemic index of samosa?

According to the January app, the glycemic index of samosa is 60. This is considered Medium. By looking up samosa 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 samosa, your blood sugar levels will rise slowly. This is because of the medium glycemic index of samosa. 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 samosa?

People with diabetes can eat samosa, but they should do so in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes. The medium glycemic index suggests that samosa can cause a moderate increase in blood sugar levels. It's essential to monitor individual responses and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Remember, this is not medical advice and you should consult a healthcare provider for dietary recommendations specific to your health condition.

What are the health benefits of samosa?

Samosas, often filled with potatoes, peas, and spices, can provide a variety of nutrients. They can be a source of carbohydrates and can offer some fiber, depending on the ingredients used. The spices used in samosas, such as turmeric and cumin, also have anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to overall health. However, samosas are often fried and may contain high levels of fat and calories, so it's best to enjoy them in moderation.

Nutritional Information

Here is the nutritional information for samosa (approx per serving - may vary by recipe):

What are some healthy alternatives to samosa?

For those seeking healthier alternatives to traditional fried samosas, consider baking them instead of frying to reduce the fat content. Additionally, you can use whole wheat flour for the pastry to increase fiber content. Other alternatives include filling the samosas with more vegetables or legumes like lentils, which can provide more protein and fiber. You can also explore other snacks with a lower glycemic index, such as vegetable sticks with hummus or a small serving of nuts.

Conclusion

Samosas can be enjoyed as a part of a balanced diet, but it's essential to be mindful of their impact on blood sugar levels, especially for individuals with diabetes. By looking up the nutritional content and glycemic index using the January app, you can make informed dietary choices. Moderation and portion control are key, and there are numerous ways to make samosas healthier if you still wish to enjoy this tasty treat.

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 Samosa

Does the filling inside the samosa affect its glycemic index?

Yes, the filling can significantly influence the glycemic index of a samosa. For instance, samosas filled with potatoes and peas may have a higher glycemic index compared to those filled with lentils or mixed vegetables, due to the varying carbohydrate content and types of starch in the fillings.

How does the cooking method of samosas impact their glycemic index?

The traditional method of deep-frying samosas can result in a higher glycemic index due to increased absorption of oils and potential breakdown of starches to simpler sugars. Alternatively, baking samosas instead of frying can result in a lower glycemic index, making them a slightly healthier option without sacrificing much flavor.

Is there a difference in glycemic index between samosas consumed hot versus cold?

Interestingly, consuming samosas hot can have a different impact on blood sugar levels compared to consuming them cold. Hot samosas may result in a quicker digestion and absorption process, leading to a faster spike in blood sugar levels. In contrast, cold samosas can slow down the digestive process, causing a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.

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