ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the property of a low GI food?

1. Fast digestion leading to sudden energy surges

2. Slow digestion causing gradual energy release

3. High in calories

4. No impact on blood sugar

The correct answer is: Slow digestion causing gradual energy release

Low GI, or low glycemic index, foods are characterized by their ability to be digested slowly, resulting in a gradual release of energy. This slow digestion process helps to provide a more sustained source of energy over an extended period, which can be beneficial for maintaining consistent blood sugar levels. Choosing low GI foods can help prevent sudden spikes and crashes in blood sugar, making them a preferable option for those looking to manage energy levels, particularly for individuals with diabetes or those aiming for weight management. In contrast to the option about fast digestion, low GI foods typically take longer to convert into glucose, which helps avoid rapid increases in blood sugar levels. While the other options mention calorie content and blood sugar impact, low GI foods do not inherently refer to high-calorie content or a lack of impact on blood sugar; instead, their defining characteristic is their slow digestion and steady energy release, which significantly influences health and energy management.