Coffee Cake, Yeast Type: A Sweet Treat with Moderate Glycemic Impact

Among the many breakfast pastries and coffee companions available, yeast-based coffee cake stands out as a classic favorite. This sweet, fluffy treat pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee, but how does it measure up in terms of blood sugar impact and nutritional profile? Let’s explore everything you need to know about yeast-type coffee cake.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load

Coffee cake (yeast type) has a glycemic index of 57.9, placing it in the medium GI category. Foods with a GI between 56 and 69 are considered moderate in terms of how quickly they raise blood sugar levels.

More importantly, this dessert has a glycemic load of 28.08, which is considered high. Glycemic load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates, providing a more accurate picture of how food affects blood sugar. A GL above 20 is considered high, meaning this coffee cake will have a significant impact on blood glucose levels.

Nutritional Profile per 100g Serving

• Calories: 372
• Protein: 6.2g
• Fat: 16.4g
• Carbohydrate: 50.9g
• Fiber: 2.4g
• Sugar: 31.7g
• Net Carbs: 48.5g

Understanding the Nutritional Impact

With 372 calories per 100g serving, yeast-type coffee cake is energy-dense. The relatively high fat content (16.4g) contributes to its rich texture and flavor, while its carbohydrate content (50.9g) accounts for more than half of its caloric value.

What’s particularly notable is the sugar content—31.7g per serving represents over 60% of the total carbohydrates. This high sugar content, combined with only 2.4g of fiber, explains why the glycemic load is high despite the moderate glycemic index.

Who Should Be Cautious?

People who should monitor their consumption of yeast-type coffee cake include:

• Individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance
• Those following low-carb or low-sugar diets
• People managing their weight
• Individuals with metabolic syndrome

Healthier Alternatives and Modifications

If you enjoy coffee cake but are concerned about its glycemic impact, consider:

• Choosing whole grain versions with higher fiber content
• Making homemade versions with less sugar and more nuts or seeds
• Consuming smaller portions alongside a source of protein
• Pairing with healthy fats like yogurt to slow digestion and glucose absorption

Conclusion

Yeast-type coffee cake, with its moderate GI but high GL, presents a significant impact on blood sugar levels. Its high calorie, sugar, and carbohydrate content make it a treat that should be enjoyed mindfully, particularly for those monitoring their blood glucose levels or managing their weight.

As with many sweet treats, the key is moderation. For those who don’t want to eliminate coffee cake entirely, consider consuming it as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence, and be mindful of portion sizes.