Glycemic Index and Nutritional Profile of Soup, Sopa or Caldo de Pollo

Caldo de pollo, also known as chicken soup or sopa de pollo, is a comforting and nutritious dish popular in Latin American cuisine. This traditional soup combines chicken with vegetables and aromatic herbs for a flavorful meal option that offers moderate glycemic impact.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load

With a Glycemic Index (GI) of 51, soup, sopa or caldo de pollo falls within the medium GI range. Foods with a GI between 56 and 69 are considered medium glycemic foods, meaning they cause a moderate rise in blood sugar levels.

More importantly, this soup has a very low Glycemic Load of just 1.65. Glycemic Load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates, making it a more practical measure for meal planning. A glycemic load under 10 is considered low, so this soup is an excellent option for those monitoring blood sugar levels.

Nutritional Information per 100g Serving

• Calories: 55
• Protein: 6.23g
• Fat: 1.58g
• Total Carbohydrates: 4.04g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.8g
• Sugar: 1.1g
• Net Carbs: 3.24g

Health Benefits

Caldo de pollo offers several nutritional advantages:

• High Protein Content: With over 6g of protein per 100g serving, this soup supports muscle maintenance and repair.
• Low Calorie: At just 55 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying yet light meal option.
• Low Net Carbs: The 3.24g of net carbs make it suitable for low-carb dietary approaches.
• Moderate Fiber: Contains 0.8g of fiber to support digestive health.

Dietary Considerations

Caldo de pollo is an excellent option for:

• Those managing diabetes or insulin resistance
• People following low-carb or moderate-carb diets
• Those looking for protein-rich, low-calorie meal options
• Anyone seeking comfort food with minimal blood sugar impact

Serving Suggestions

To maintain the low glycemic impact of this soup:

• Pair with a small side salad for additional fiber and nutrients
• Avoid serving with high-GI sides like white bread or crackers
• Consider adding extra vegetables to increase fiber content
• Add a squeeze of lime or fresh herbs for flavor enhancement without affecting glycemic impact

This traditional chicken soup offers a nutritious, comforting meal option with minimal impact on blood glucose levels, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their glycemic response while enjoying flavorful food.