Mefita and carbohydrates in teff

The benefit of slowly-digestible carbohydrates

Teff contains about 60% carbohydrates, more than half of which are complex carbohydrates that are slowly digestible. The proportions of the various carbohydrates in teff make the grain ideally suited to a range of target groups.

The carbohydrates in teff for people with diabetes

People with diabetes have a metabolism that is unable to respond adequately to rapid and substantial increases in the blood sugar level - or, in other words, a high metabolic load of sugars with a high glycemic index. Teff contains only a low amount of rapidly-digestible sugars. The majority of teff's carbohydrates release sugar more slowly, thereby avoiding peaks in the glucose load.

The carbohydrates in teff for people engaged in (long-duration) sports

Rapidly-digestible carbohydrates offer an immediately available source of energy. However, people engaged in long-duration sports or other forms of long-term physical effort benefit a longer, more uniform availability of energy and a lower peak availability of energy. Teff, which contains large amounts of complex carbohydrates, is ideally suited to this need. Consequently, teff is extremely popular amongst people engaged in longer duration sports such as football, tennis, cycling and running.

The carbohydrates in teff for the obese

Low blood sugar levels result in hunger pangs. The complex carbohydrates in
teff are released over a longer period of time and maintain the blood sugar level. This can help limit the consumption of snacks to curb hunger pangs.

The carbohydrates in teff for senior citizens

Research carried out by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and Wageningen University has revealed that a fibre-rich diet can decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This is particularly welcome to people who wish to remain active in later life and stay in good physical and mental health.