Is Meat or Poultry Included in the Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index is used as a measurement of how carbohydrate-based foods affect blood sugar. Foods are given a rating of their effect on blood sugar when compared to the simple sugar glucose, which has a glycemic index of 100. Foods with higher glycemic index ranges result in a sharper rise in blood sugar levels and may lead to disorders of blood sugar control. Foods with lower glycemic index ranges have less effect on blood sugar levels.

Meat and poultry are not carbohydrate sources and as such do not have an effect on blood sugar. Therefore, meat and poultry are not included in the glycemic index. Consuming animal protein sources such as beef and poultry should not elevate your blood sugar.