Spice Cake or Cupcake: A Moderate Glycemic Option for Sweet Cravings
Are you watching your blood sugar levels but still craving something sweet? Spice cake might be a better option than many other desserts when consumed in moderation. Let’s explore the nutritional profile and glycemic impact of this aromatic treat.
Glycemic Index and Load
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Spice cake has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 42, placing it in the low-to-moderate GI category. Foods with a GI under 55 are generally considered low glycemic options that cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels.
However, the Glycemic Load (GL) is 23.31, which falls into the high range. This higher GL indicates that while the GI is moderate, the total carbohydrate content means it can still have a significant impact on blood sugar levels when consumed in the standard 100g serving.
Nutritional Breakdown
Per 100g serving, spice cake provides:
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 2.66g
- Fat: 19.4g
- Carbohydrates: 56.4g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 42.2g
- Net Carbs: 55.5g
Understanding the Impact
The moderately low GI of spice cake compared to other desserts may be attributed to the spices commonly found in it, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which have been studied for their potential benefits in blood sugar regulation.
However, the high sugar content (42.2g per 100g) and relatively high net carbs (55.5g) mean this should still be considered an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a low-glycemic diet.
Portion Control Is Key
The standard serving analyzed here is 100g, which is quite large for cake. A typical cupcake might be 50-60g, and reducing your portion size will proportionally reduce the glycemic load and caloric intake.
Better Choices
If you’re following a low-glycemic diet but want to enjoy spice cake occasionally:
- Opt for a smaller portion
- Pair it with a protein source to slow sugar absorption
- Choose versions with more fiber-rich ingredients
- Consider homemade versions where you can reduce sugar content
The Bottom Line
Spice cake offers a moderate glycemic option among desserts, but its high sugar content and carbohydrate load mean it should be consumed mindfully, especially for those monitoring blood sugar levels or managing diabetes. Enjoying a small portion occasionally as part of an overall balanced diet can help satisfy sweet cravings without causing dramatic blood sugar spikes.