In 2005 the USDA released a new food pyramid guideline to help people eat properly and control their weight. But honestly, it didn't impress me and it was very confusing. There really are only 4 nutrition rules for weight loss. And here they are...

1. Eat a lot of fibrous fruits and vegetables

There are very, very few North Americans that eat enough fruits and vegetables. So if you do, you will be well on your way to fat loss. In fact, if you want to lose weight, its important to eat more than the recommended 5 servings per day. Aim for the top end of fruits and vegetables recommendations, and replace all your processed carbohydrates with healthier fruits and vegetables. In addition to being healthier, fruits and vegetables will also fill you up faster and longer.

2. Eat quality protein

Protein helps control your appetite. You should aim to eat small amounts of protein spread over the course of the day. This will help your mental energy levels as well and prevent you from getting tired and hungry. Good protein sources include whey protein, fish (salmon, tuna), beef, chicken, and alternative meats such as bison and ostrich.

3. Eliminate all added sugar from your diet

There is almost no redeeming quality to sugar. It can drain your mental energy, prevent you from losing body fat, and of course, give you cavities. There is no room in a weight loss program for added sugar. If you cut it out, you'll cut the fat.

4. Consuming only low-glycemic carbohydrates

Avoid all foods from a bag or box, including all processed carbohydrates. So forget the obvious (chips, candy) and even the supposedly healthy (pretzels, instant oatmeal). You'll be less tired if you stick to yams and vegetables for your carbohydrate intake.

That's it. Eat whole, natural foods. Don't eat it if God didn't make it himself!