Meats are a protein food, so as you see in the glycemic index listing they all have very little carbohydrate and therefore a very low GI.
So why not just eat an all meat diet?
First of all, carbohydrates and certain fats are essential to optimum health. Do not leave these out!
But what about proteins?
Despite the low values of meat in the glycemic index listing, you should still try to incorporate protein from other sources into your diet. Different protein sources contribute different essential amino acids to the diet. Eating a good variety of protein from meats, eggs, dairy, grains, and legumes is a healthy way to make sure you're getting all the proteins your body needs.
In addition to protein, lean red meats are also an excellent source of iron which is necessary for forming the cells that transport oxygen throughout your body.
A typical serving size of meat is about 4 oz, or again (similar to breads) about the size and thickness of the palm of your hand.
The meats and seafood in the glycemic index listing below should be quite easy to find at your local supermarket, butcher, and fresh fish market.
Note: Foods marked with the
symbol are a part
of the Key GG Low Glycemic Foods
List.
| Meats | Glycemic Index | |
|
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast | ● |
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Boneless Skinless Turkey Breast | ● |
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Lean Deli Ham | ● |
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Pork Tenderloin (or other lean pork cut) | ● |
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Extra Lean Ground Beef | ● |
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Beef Top Sirloin or Eye Round Steak | ● |
| Seafood | Glycemic Index | |
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Cod (or other white fish) | ● |
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Salmon | ● |
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Crab Meat (fresh or canned) | ● |
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Shrimp (fresh or frozen) | ● |
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Tuna (canned in water) | ● |
Glycemic Index Data Sources: "The New Glucose
Revolution"
● Little carbohydrate; GI approximately zero
* Estimated based on similar foods
Go back to Key GG Low Glycemic Foods List from Glycemic Index Listing of Meats and Seafood
Go up to Glycemic Gourmet Home from Glycemic Index Listing of Meats and Seafood
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