Diet fads come and go but the Food Guide Pyramid seems to continue to stand the test of time (even though they have reissued a new, up to date one. We know that we gain weight because we move less or burn off less energy than we consume. Therefore, if only we eat just enough or burn more energy than what we do now, we will lose weight right? Well, that is the ideal situation. Unfortunately, it is not as easy as that. In the end, it is not just about limiting our food intake and exercising more. It is really about making that conscious decision to eat the right kinds of foods AND to lead a more active lifestyle.

Here is a fact - a healthy body can shed pounds faster than a malnourished one. As such, start focusing on the right foods to eat. If you do so, the shedding of pounds will easily follow.

Proteins are important because they stop muscle tissue from breaking down and help in the repair of body tissues such as teeth and skin. In general, women 25 years and older should consume 50 grams of proteins daily. Men 25 years and older, on the other hand, need 63 grams. Protein sources are meat, fish poultry, eggs, dry beans and nuts. (of course, more active people will need more)

Carbohydrates. The Atkins diet gave carbs a bad name but really, they should be part of your diet. Studies show that at least 100 grams of carbs are needed daily to prevent fluid imbalances in your body and to prevent you from experiencing fatigue. Carbohydrate sources are bread, rice, cereal and pasta. Choose 'brown' or unprocessed carbohydrates for better health.

Fiber. Adequate fiber intake is pegged at 20 to 30 grams daily. Fiber food sources are bran cereal, kidney beans, carrots, a medium-sized apple or pear.

Foods and the calories they contain. If you take a look at most common low-calorie weight loss diets, they often recommend the intake of only 1,000 to 1,500 calories daily. However, note that calorie consumption really depends on your current weight and activity level, and sometimes even your age. As a general rule, you should engage in a diet that enables you to lose only 1 pound weekly as studies have shown this to be the safest and most effective type of weight loss in the long run. To find out what should be your target calorie intake, do consult with a certified health professional.

Lastly, do not BAN any food from your diet. The best mindset to take is 'everything in moderation'. Remember that to deprive yourself completely of something will only make you want it more and once you give in, you would have consumed an entire bag of chips or more than half of that chocolate cake. So choose what you eat wisely but do not be afraid to indulge in a few 'sins' now and then.