NANP Board Practice Exam

The available carbohydrate content of a food measured in grams (g) multiplied by the food's glycemic index and then divided by 100 is known as:

1. Glycemic Index

2. Glycemic Load

3. Net Carbs

4. Simple Carbs

The correct answer is: Glycemic Load

The concept of glycemic load is integral in understanding how different foods affect blood sugar levels. Glycemic load takes into account not just the glycemic index of a food, which measures how quickly glucose is absorbed into the bloodstream, but also the actual amount of carbohydrates present in a serving of that food. When you multiply the available carbohydrate content in grams by the glycemic index and then divide by 100, you are effectively calculating the glycemic load, which provides a more comprehensive picture than glycemic index alone. This calculation helps in assessing the potential impact of carbohydrate-containing foods on blood glucose levels, supporting individuals, particularly those managing diabetes or interested in blood sugar control, in making informed dietary choices. Other options relate to carbohydrate content but do not encompass the impact on blood sugar in the way glycemic load does. For instance, glycemic index alone does not factor in the amount of carbohydrates consumed, while net carbs refers to total carbohydrates minus fiber and certain sugars that are not absorbed. Simple carbs are sugars that are easily and rapidly digested but do not account for the glycemic response as effectively as glycemic load does.