A French biochemist and author known for her work on healthy eating has highlighted a practical approach to stabilizing blood sugar. The idea centers on the order in which foods are eaten: start with vegetables, move to proteins or fats, and finish with carbohydrates. This sequence is presented as a way to smooth how glucose rises after meals, according to Health News reports.
After most meals, blood sugar makes a small rise as a natural function of the pancreatic islet cells. In some people, these increases can be more pronounced, signaling potential metabolic issues or diabetes. The recommendation to eat in a specific order is aimed at mitigating those sharper fluctuations and promoting steadier glucose management.
The expert advises arranging a typical plate so that vegetables come first, followed by protein or fat sources such as meat, seafood, or poultry, and finally carbohydrates like cereals or pasta. This pattern relies on the glycemic index, an indicator of how quickly carbohydrates affect blood sugar. Vegetables generally have a low glycemic impact, meaning they induce only a gentle rise in glucose. When the sequence includes protein or fat before carbohydrates, the overall glucose increase tends to be more gradual.
The concept is that the body processes foods at different rates, and by tasting vegetables first, then proteins or fats, and then carbohydrates, a steadier energy curve is achieved. This approach can help some people avoid large spikes in blood sugar after meals, supporting better metabolic balance over time.
Historical research and ongoing studies emphasize the role of meal composition in managing postprandial glucose. While the exact impact can vary among individuals, a diet that favors low GI vegetables early in the meal, followed by proteins or fats and finished with carbohydrates, aligns with practical strategies used in modern nutrition to support glycemic control. It is a reminder that the sequence of eating can complement other healthy habits such as adequate fiber intake, regular physical activity, and consistent meal timing.
For those seeking to apply this approach, a simple starting point is to fill a plate with a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables, include a lean protein source, and then add a modest serving of whole grains or starchy carbohydrates. Listening to how the body responds to different meals, keeping portions in check, and choosing nutrient-dense foods can make the strategy accessible and sustainable in daily life.
In short, the order of eating may influence how sharply blood sugar rises after meals. While not a substitute for medical advice, it offers a practical framework for people aiming to support steady energy levels and healthier glucose management as part of a balanced lifestyle.