Apple Pie (Fast Food): Glycemic Index and Nutritional Information
Our user-friendly app features a searchable database, meal planning tools, and personalized recommendations based on your health goals.
Apple pie is a beloved dessert that brings comfort and sweetness to many tables. However, if you’re watching your blood sugar levels or following a low glycemic diet, you might wonder how this classic treat fits into your meal plan. Let’s explore the glycemic index and nutritional profile of fast food apple pie.
Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load
Fast food apple pie has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 59, placing it in the medium GI range. Foods with a GI between 56 and 69 are considered medium glycemic index foods, meaning they cause a moderate rise in blood sugar levels.
The Glycemic Load (GL) is 23.6 per 100g serving, which is considered high. Glycemic Load takes into account both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in a food, providing a more complete picture of how a food affects blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Breakdown (per 100g serving)
- Calories: 316 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 16.1g
- Carbohydrates: 42.6g
- Fiber: 2.6g
- Sugar: 21.4g
- Net Carbs: 40g
What This Means For Your Diet
The relatively high glycemic load of fast food apple pie indicates that it can cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for people with diabetes or those following a low GI diet.
The high calorie and carbohydrate content, combined with relatively low fiber, means that fast food apple pie should be consumed in moderation. The 21.4g of sugar per 100g serving also contributes to its impact on blood glucose levels.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re monitoring your blood sugar levels but still crave the flavors of apple pie, consider these lower GI alternatives:
- Homemade apple pie with whole grain crust and reduced sugar
- Baked apples with cinnamon and a small amount of honey
- Apple slices with a small portion of natural nut butter
- Greek yogurt topped with diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Conclusion
While fast food apple pie can be an occasional treat, its medium GI and high GL make it less ideal for regular consumption by those monitoring blood glucose levels. Understanding its nutritional profile can help you make informed decisions about incorporating it into your diet in a balanced way.
Remember that portion size significantly impacts glycemic load, so if you do indulge, consider sharing or saving half for later to reduce the impact on your blood sugar levels.