Planning high-carbohydrate, high-fiber diets with a microcomputer

Current research suggests that a diet high in carbohydrate and fiber (HCF) may be useful in the management of diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. To meet the needs of our clinic population, a microcomputer program has been developed that allows for individualization of HCF menu patterns that satisfy both the diet prescription and the patient's preferences. Educational materials were prepared to guide and augment the HCF diet instruction. It is hoped that this comprehensive approach to diet planning and teaching can be applied in similar settings to facilitate the delivery of quality patient care.