The term "glycemic index" is something I've heard touted in many a diet plan recently, from television to magazines that I frequent. The glycemic diet (as in, a low glycemic count) is meant to raise blood sugar slowly -- over time -- as opposed to quickly raising blood sugar levels. Not only is this a healthy way to eat, but it can be more effective than counting calories when it comes to weight loss.

Counting calories can only go so far. That's because no two calories are created equal (well, in many cases). The way some calories are used and burned in the body can be vastly different between certain foods and beverages. But, the way your blood sugar spikes (regardless of actual food) based on keeping your chosen foods low in the glycemic index may be better for actual weight loss.

In Australia, a study that looked at dieters for six months concluded that those who followed a low glycemic diet -- even when eating to their heart's content -- lost more weight than those who chose to try and lose weight by restricting calories alone.