Can someone explain the "exchange" plan?
 

I'd really appreciate it. I have no idea what it is.

The exchange plan is actually a balanced eating plan based on so many servings of PRO. FAT BR. FR. MILK. Depending on what calorie level you are following that is the amount from each group that you eat.Usually there is a listing for the calorie level as to how many exchanges you can eat from each food group. There is no need to count calories however; it is best to measure portions. Richard Simmons LW&C is based on this. Diabetics usually follow this type of meal plan.

Hi there..
I am in Canada as well, and also a Tops member, and our plan is just sensible eating using the Canada Food Guide.
Hope that is some help to you!!

Your Tops Pal

Thanks for the replies.

I still don't really understand what this eating plan is. I was given a sample menu when I joined TOPS, but many of the food selections in there don't seem very "light" to me. Has anyone else noticed this?

Also, I'm a vegetarian and I find that many of the food guides and diet plans are geared towards meat-eaters. I wonder how I can get around this. Sorry for all of the questions; I'm new to TOPS.

The exchange 'diet' is a very balanced way of eating. Has anyone at your TOPS meeting shown you the book 'The Choice Is Yours'? Last years chapter leader recieved one that is supposed to be for the chapters use. I recommend that you buy the book from your chapter. If they don't have any on hand they can order you one for $9 US or $12 Canadian.

This book explains the 'diet' well giving you serving sizes for the various foods and what constitutes an exchange of each food group.

I used this way of eating when I first joined TOPS and had success with it eventually reaching goal. I also wish you success and WELCOME to the TOPS family!

Summer

Motivation, it sounds like the plan you are following as mentioned in another post is balanced, works for you and meets your vegetarian lifestyle. Summer I just orderedthe book you mentioned from my chapter. I just joined last Monday and they were out so they ordered me one. I like the book as I had the chance to browse another members. Personally; I like the exchange plan as it is balanced includes a little of everything. A lot of my riends are on the high protien low carb diet. I could not live on this nt to mention what long term effects on my health. It is great to hear that you reached your goal using the exchange plan.

I am going to order the TOPS book next week. Even if I do not follow the exchange plan, I will certainly benefit from the other information offered in the book.