Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Glycemic Index (GI) ranks carbohydrate foods from 0 to 100 based on their relative blood glucose response compared to pure glucose or white bread.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{Low GI: } \le 55 \quad | \quad \text{Medium GI: } 56 - 69 \quad | \quad \text{High GI: } \ge 70 \]
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Evaluating the typical Glycemic Index (GI) values of the given foods:
1. D. Soybean (Legume): Very Low GI ($\approx 15 - 18$) due to high protein, fiber, and resistant starch.
2. B. Apple (Fresh Fruit): Low GI ($\approx 36 - 38$) rich in soluble pectin and fructose.
3. A. Popcorn (Whole Grain Snack): Moderate GI ($\approx 55 - 65$).
4. C. Whole Wheat Bread: High GI ($\approx 69 - 72$).
5. E. Rice Porridge (Congee Overcooked White Rice): Very High GI ($\approx 78 - 85$) due to rapid starch gelatinization.
Arranging in increasing order (low to high): D $\rightarrow$ B $\rightarrow$ A $\rightarrow$ C $\rightarrow$ E.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct ascending order is D, B, A, C, E, matching option (B).