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Question:
Are foods with a high glycemic index bad for your heart?
Does consuming foods with a high glycemic index raise the risk of cardiovascular disease in nondiabetic individuals?
submitted by Dean from United Kingdom on 12/24/2012
Answer:
by St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital nutritionist, Kathryn Chiles, RD, LD, CNSC
After reviewing the literature and according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Based Library, there is no strong evidence or direct relationship between consuming high glycemic index foods and increased risk of cardiovascular disease in a non diabetic patient. However one large study reported there is a slight increase in cardiovascular disease risk if age is >50 and BMI is >25, but this result was not confirmed in any other study. Following a healthy, well balanced diet still remains important. Consuming high fiber foods (lower glycemic index foods) such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains every day has proven to have benefits on overall health.
Please let me know if there is anything else I can provide.
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Updated January 2013
