Carbohydrate Choices on the Diabetic Meal Plan

According to the American Diabetes Association, there is no such thing as a "diabetic diet." Instead, they promote a healthy diet with a combination of 50% carbohydrates, 20% proteins and 30% fats. In terms of carbohydrates, one fruit exchange is equal to one carbohydrate, such as one small apple, or 1/2 cup of orange juice. One starch exchange is one carbohydrate, such as one slice of bread, 1/2 cup cooked cereal, or 1/2 of a medium baked potato. Vegetables are lower in carbohydrates, and 1/2 cup of most non-starchy vegetables will be about 5 grams of carbohydrate, so 1 1/2 cups of broccoli would equal one carbohydrate choice, for example. Eight ounces of low fat milk or sugar free yogurt is also one carbohydrate choice. Learning to use "exchanges" allows to you go into any dining setting and make good choices regarding your carbohydrate. Ask your physician for a referral to a Nutritionist or Registered Dietitian, or contact your local chapter of the American Diabetes Association for more information about food exchanges and your diabetic meal plan.