Carbohydrate is a nutrient which breaks down to sugar-sugar is needed to help you meet your energy needs. Some forms of carbohydrate should be avoided, such as: table sugar, jam, honey, desserts, etc.. Other forms of carbohydrate are required for your energy requirements, such as: milk, vegetables, fruits and starches.

Protein is needed for growth and maintainence of muscle and tissue. Food sources of protein are meat, poultry, eggs, cheese and milk. About one-half of protein goes to blood glucose so protein intake needs to be controlled.

Fats are a storage form of energy for the body. Examples of high fat foods are butter, margarine, bacon, cream and salad dressings. About ten percent of fat is converted to blood glucose so its direct effect on blood sugar is relatively small. Despite this, it is important to control fat in your diet because it is very high in calories and may result in weight gain.

Regular use of high fiber foods in your daily meal plan is encouraged. Foods naturally richest in fiber are the starchy carbohydrates (raw fruits, raw vegetables and whole grain products). Research findings demonstrate that after a high fiber meal the serum glucose was not as high as after a meal low in fiber. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugars and starches from the intestine. Also, the added fiber in your meal plan creates a feeling of fullness and therefore helps you decrease your total caloric intake.

All the foods have been divided into 6 groups or exchanges which are of the same value in calories, carbohydrate, protein and fat. You may trade one food for another within the same food group. The six groups of exchange are:

Points To Remember

Avoid the use of simple carbohydrates - they provide concentrated sources of sugar and may be too high in calories to be safe in your diet. The following foods should not be used in your diet:

1. Do not skip meals! Eat 3 meals and the number of snack in your diet plan. Your diet has been carefully planned to provide the proper number of calories and nutrients you need each day.
2. Eat your meals at the same time each day! Regular meal times are essential. Delaying meals or snacks often leads to trouble.
3. Measure your foods using appropriate utensils such as meat by ounces, fruits and vegetables by cups and fats by teaspoon or tablespoon in order to keep the serving sizes correct. Measuring your food at home will make it easier for you to estimate serving sizes when you eat away from home.
4. Prepare your food with the family meals, but take your serving out before adding extra fat, flour, or sugar.