Carbohydrates should make up 50 – 55% of your diet. Actually the common belief that fewer carbohydrates are better when you are dieting should really be reversed. You still need energy when dieting, and carbohydrates are a good source of energy, so 50 – 55% of your diet should still be carbohydrates. Of course if you are diabetic or have other similar problems you should consult your doctor or specialist first.

Proteins should make up 25 to 30% of your diet. Proteins are the building blocks in our bodies and are necessary in the constant breakdown and building up going on.

Your body needs to build resistance to and recover from infections and diseases so 25 – 30% of your diet should consist of proteins. Muscle is built up by protein and your metabolic rate increases as you gain muscle so about a gram of protein per pound of body weight is a balanced intake.

You don't need much fat in your diet so keep your intake low at about 15 – 20%.

Changing your diet towards a more fresh vegetable and fruit intake is a much more healthy option. Leaning towards this type of diet has many advantages including boosting your immune system. I know it’s hard to give up all those tasty meats so give yourself treat one or two nights per week and enjoy your favorite meats.

I f your trying to lose weight white meats, like fish and chicken, but not the skin, are healthier than red meats like lamb and beef.

Increase the fiber content in your foods. More fruit and vegetables will help and another good source is multigrain breads. Multigrain breads are also another source of protein. Bacon, ham, sausages, and just pork on it's own are not helpful in losing weight so you should reduce your intake of these if you want to lose weight.

Replace your sugar intake with unsweetened substitutes or if you still want the taste use sugar substitutes, which are not fattening, and are used in many products today.

Eating 5 – 6 times a day instead of 3 big meals can help you to eat less as you will not feel so hungry when you eat.It is an excellent way of having smaller quantities of food.

There are some things that you will always crave and it's ok to indulge yourself occasionally so don't think you can never have them. A good diet is all about balance. You may be surprised at how these things used as a treat only will give great satisfaction about how well you are succeeding in keeping to a balanced diet.

I hope you will find these tips valuable in your efforts to live a healthier life.