Glycaemic Index and Glycaemic Loads of Six Selected Ghanaian Fruits

Abstract

This study assessed the glycaemic index and glycaemic loads of six selected Ghanaian local fruits and their impact on blood glucose levels. The main goal of this research was to find out if the consumption of the selected fruits has any impact on blood glucose levels. The purpose of this investigation is to help consumers who are prediabetic, diabetic, and hypertensive in making right choices when selecting fruits and taking in right quantities to promote good health. The study sought: to find out the nutritive value of the selected fruits, find the glycaemic indices of the six fruits, the glycaemic load of the six fruits, and compared how these fruits affected blood glucose levels. The experimental research design was used. The study was conducted in the Cape Coast Metropolis in the central region. The six Ghanaian local fruits: African locust bean, African grapes, Shea fruit, Tropical almond, Baobab and Breadnut were used. A blood glucose test was conducted to determine the effects of the six fruits on blood glucose levels. Findings from the data collected by the researcher showed that the glycaemic indices ranging from 18.42 to 41.39 of all the fruits were low as well as glycaemic loads ranging from 0.61 to 6.09. Proximate analyses was used to assess the protein content, fat content, ash content, moisture content and available carbohydrates. The were found to have significant levels of minerals which is good for the body.