Prior to 1981, if a patient was informed they had diabetes the patient would be given a diabetic exchange list of foods to eat, along with portion sizes. The exchange system is divided up into three main categories: carbohydrates, proteins and fats. A change to the system was that a 1/2 cup of pasta was considered a serving but now it is 1/3 cup of pasta per serving. The carbohydrate group consists of starch, fruit, milk, vegetables and all other carbohydrates. The meat section is divided into very lean, lean, medium and high fat meats. The fat group includes all fats. The exchange system was standardized throughout the country and taught in hospitals, private practices, and in schools.

Did you know that the avocado has been called the world's most perfect food and has many health benefits? It has achieved the distinction because many nutritionists claim it not only contains everything a person needs to survive – but it has also found to contribute to the prevention and control of Alzheimer's cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other health conditions.