Food ScienceInformational

Glycemic Load (GL)

Also known as: GLGlycaemic Load

Definition

A measure that accounts for both the quality (Glycemic Index) and quantity (grams of carbohydrate per serving) of carbohydrates in a food. Calculated as: GL = (GI × grams of carbs per serving) ÷ 100. Classified as Low (≤10), Medium (11-19), or High (≥20).

Why It Matters

Glycemic Load is more practical than GI because it reflects real-world portions. For example, watermelon has a high GI (~72) but a low GL (~4) because a typical serving contains very little carbohydrate. Conversely, white pasta has a moderate GI (~50) but a high GL (~23) due to large typical portions. GL is the better predictor of actual blood sugar response.

Commonly Found In

Applies to all carbohydrate-containing foods

Try These Tools

Glycemic Calculator

Related Terms

Glycemic Index (GI)

Informational

A numerical ranking system (0-100) that measures how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels after consumption. Pure glucose is the reference food with a GI of 100. Foods are classified as Low GI (≤55), Medium GI (56-69), or High GI (≥70).