Research
Hormonal
The rate of starch digestion (RAG vs SAG) is a better predictor of postprandial glycemic response than total starch content, with Rapidly Available Glucose (RAG) being the main determinant of blood glucose spikes.
When eating starchy foods, choose those with higher Slowly Available Glucose (SAG) and lower Rapidly Available Glucose (RAG). This means choosing whole grains, pasta, or legumes over highly processed cereals or breads, as the latter cause sharper blood sugar spikes due to rapid starch digestion.
StrongSupportsHIGH confidence
it was RAG, by virtue of its rapid digestion and absorption in the small intestine, that was the main determinant of the postprandial rise in blood glucose concentrations
Why this rating
The paper cites multiple studies showing strong correlation between RAG and GI.
Source
Carbohydrate bioavailability
Klaus Englyst et al. · British Journal Of Nutrition · 2005
narrative_reviewCited 225×
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