As many times this topic gets started, thats how many times I love to respond (its that encouraging and that important)
The diet that works for us is really quite simple:
1) try to only eat food you make at home. And never skip breakfast!
2) if you must eat store bought food, try to avoid things with more than 5 ingredients
3) avoid hydrogenated anything!
4) portion size: divide your plate as follows: 50% salad, 25% main course, 25% side dish. desert should be the same size as your main course
5) Excercise. No, not the NYC marathon, and not the Ironman triathalon. Walking 2-3 miles (within 30-45 minutes)a day should do the trick for 90% of us
6) Remember, its the only body you have.. take care of it!
Dieting / maintaining your health is not a punishment….its a gift you give yourself.