Not all foods behave the same way once they enter our bodies. The glycaemic index or G.I. describes this difference by ranking foods according to their effect on our blood glucose levels. Low G.I. foods are the ones that produce only small fluctuations in our blood glucose and insulin levels.

The author, Rick Gallop, has classified foods into three categories based on the colours of a traffic light. Foods in the red-light category are high G.I, high-calorie foods that should be avoided, for instance, whole milk, white rice and pizza. Foods in the yellow light category have moderate G.I ratings but still raise insulin levels to the point where weight loss would not happen. Such foods include nuts, bananas, boiled potatoes. Foods in the green light category are the ones with low G.I. that will allow you to lose weight - foods such as barley, fat free cheese and skinless chicken breast.

The G.I. diet consists of two phases. Phase I is the weight loss portion of the diet. and Phase II is the maintenance portion. As with all diets, it is important to set a goal, and to do that, you have to first determine your current BMI, and target to achieve a healthier Ievel. The next step involves clearing out your cupboards and stocking up on the green light foods. A shopping list is included in the Appendix to help you get started.

There is an entire section foiled with delicious, ail-new recipes for low G.I. dishes, ranging from breakfast meals to soups, salads, fish and seafood poultry, snacks and dessert. Also included are recipes for meatless dishes so vegetarians can get started on the G.I. diet as well.

Inspiring testimonials from readers on the G.I. diet are included throughout the book detailing how the diet has worked for them and the benefits they have reaped. The key point to note is that the G.I. diet is not a short-term weight-loss diet. It involves making the right choices in the foods you eat for long-term health benefits.

By Low Si Wei

Have you wondered what kind of an image you are portraying to others when you are at work, in your social or personal life! Do you know what colours are suitable for you? What are the right outfits you should wear, according to your size, and what hair styles are appropriate for your face shapes

If you have the same doubts as many women have, this is book will be perfect for you. Imaging for Women. Colour, Style & Make-up by Sharfyn Stafford provides many tips on how to look good and feel your best on any occasion.

The author believes that first impressions are crucial moments we can use to our advantage. Many times, before we even speak up, people are already influenced by the way we look. She also lists some common mistakes women make. especially when dressing for work, and touches on some basic international guidelines on business dress expectations.

For those who are interested in finding out if they are dressing correctly or if they understand their own body shape, they can assess themselves by answering some simple questions. In addition, the author mentions a number of useful ups on how to apply make-up as well as the importance of a basic skin care routine.

An excellent resource for women who want to find out how they can protect a positive image in their workplace to influence others and to succeed in the competitive environment.


By Michelle Kwok