Are Bagels Health Food?
I’ve never understood how bagels got a reputation as a health food. They’re high in carbs and have a high glycemic index, meaning that they cause spikes in blood sugar that add weight, produce hunger and aggravate diabetes. Half a plain bagel increases blood sugar as much as a 2-ounce Snickers bar. Typical bagels are as bad for blood sugar as white bread, sugar and potatoes. Whole-wheat bagels? Just slightly better.
This EatSmart column is reprinted from USAWEEKEND Magazine and is copyrighted by Jean Carper. It cannot be reprinted without permission from Jean Carper.
