[ Exchange Lists, Exchange System ]
A system of grouping foods together into lists, according to their macronutrient equivalence. The foods on each list have roughly the same carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
The Exchange lists were created to increase awareness of the nutritional value of foods and as a substitution guide for diabetics. The lists are grouped according to carbohydrate, meat (protein) and fat content.
The exchange lists system has fallen into disuse, replaced by the Glycaemic Index and Glycaemic Load.