The glycemic index (GI) is a ranking that measures how quickly carbohydrate-containing foods raise blood glucose levels. Foods with a high GI cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, while low-GI foods lead to more gradual increases. Understanding GI can play a significant role in food choices, especially for individuals managing conditions like diabetes. Consuming foods with a lower GI helps maintain steady energy levels and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to poor blood sugar control.