Brain Fuel and Low Glycemic Index
by Theresa Oswald, MD • January 14, 2011
The brain has a very high metabolic rate but no fuel storage. This means that optimal brain function depends on a steady stream of fuel especially glucose in our blood stream. Complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index provide steady fuel or glucose availability. Glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how rapidly carbohydrates are broken down into glucose. A low-GI food will release glucose more slowly and steadily. A high-GI food causes a more rapid rise in blood glucose. Beans are an excellent low-GI fuel source. Beans are also amazing anti-oxidants with twice the anti-oxidant capacity of blueberries.
Here is a fun, easy to prepare and yummy bean recipe.
Bean and Cheese Tostadas
2 whole wheat tortillas
½ cup shredded cheese
1 cup vegetarian refried beans with 1 t garlic powder and 1 t cumin powder.
Heat beans and spices in pan.
Top tortillas with cheese and heat on griddle until cheese melts. Top with bean mixture and garnish with shredded greens, fresh salsa and/or guacamole.
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