The glycemic index indicates how rapidly a carbohydrate is digested and released as glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream. Get proven results from this safe, effective, and easy-to-follow diet The glycemic load is a ranking system for carbohydrate-rich food that measures the amount of carbohydrates in a serving. Using the Glycemic Index is a proven method for calculating the way carbohydrates act in your body to help you lose weight, safely, quickly, and effectively. The second edition of The Glycemic Index Diet For Dummies presents this system in an easy-to-apply manner, giving you the tools and tips you need to shed unwanted pounds and improve your overall health.