With a glycemic index of just 15, tomatoes are excellent for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
According to the January app, the glycemic index of tomato is 15. This is considered low. By looking up tomato 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.
When you eat tomato, your blood sugar levels will not rise much. This is because of the low glycemic index of tomato. 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.
Tomatoes are generally considered safe for people with diabetes to eat, thanks to their low glycemic index. However, it's always important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Each individual's condition is unique, and a healthcare provider can offer specific recommendations based on one's health status.
Tomatoes are rich in nutrients and offer several health benefits. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, potassium, folate, and antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Tomatoes also support skin health and may protect against sunburn.
Here is the nutritional information for tomato:
If you're looking for healthy alternatives to tomatoes, consider bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini. These vegetables are also low in carbohydrates and have high water content, making them refreshing alternatives. Additionally, red bell peppers can offer a similar sweet flavor profile and are also rich in nutrients.
Tomatoes are a nutritious and versatile food with a low glycemic index, making them an excellent choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. They provide numerous health benefits and can be enjoyed by most people, including those with diabetes. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice. Consider using the January app to keep track of the glycemic index and glycemic load of various foods to make informed dietary choices.
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.
Does the glycemic index of tomatoes vary between different types of tomatoes?
Yes, the glycemic index of tomatoes can vary slightly between different types. For instance, cherry tomatoes, roma tomatoes, and heirloom tomatoes might have subtle differences in their glycemic index due to variations in sugar content and fiber levels. However, all types of tomatoes generally have a low glycemic index, so these differences are minor and don't significantly impact blood sugar levels.
Is there a difference in the glycemic index of raw tomatoes versus cooked tomatoes?
Cooking tomatoes can cause a change in their glycemic index. When tomatoes are cooked, their cellular structure breaks down, which can slightly increase their glycemic index. However, since tomatoes already have a low glycemic index of 15, this increase is usually minimal and won't cause a significant spike in blood sugar levels.
Does the time of the day you consume tomatoes affect their impact on blood sugar levels?
Interestingly, the time of day you consume tomatoes can influence their impact on blood sugar levels. Eating tomatoes as part of a balanced breakfast can help stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the day, while consuming them at dinner might be beneficial for those looking to control their nighttime blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index and high fiber content. However, the overall impact is low due to tomatoes' inherently low glycemic index.