When following a diabetic diet, understand that you can make certain exchanges to prevent becoming bored with your diet and being tempted to "cheat". Foods on a diabetic diet are categorized as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. You will be given lists of these foods, and you can exchange one for another of equal values. For example, you could have half a cup of cooked pasta, or a small baked or boiled potato, or a slice of bread.