Healthy eating does not need to be overly complicated; a bit of common sense goes along way. I would advise to avoid any fad diets or dietary extremes. A healthy eating plan should be easy to maintain over the long haul. At least 50% of your diet should be lean protein sources (i.e. fish, tuna, egg whites, turkey, chicken, lean beef). Eliminate or at least reduce sugar and high glycemic, fast acting carbohydrates such as breads and pastas made of white flour all of which cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. The rapid rise in blood sugar is followed by an excessive elevation of insulin which drives glucose (sugar) into adipose or fat cells. Better to choose low glycemic or slow acting carbs which help to keep blood sugar levels more steady after a meal. Good carbohydrate sources would include oatmeal, most fruits and vegetables (which are a great source of nutrients and phyto-nutrients), brown rice and whole wheat bread in moderation. Choose sweet potatoes or yams over regular potatoes if given a choice. Add in some healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts or nut butter, avocados, seeds and fish oil, and you have a great foundational diet. To keep blood sugar levels steady and avoid an elevation of fat storing hormones, eat every 3 hours if possible. For most this would include 3 meals with 3 snacks which could consist of plain yogurt, nuts or a low carbohydrate protein shake (whey protein is the great). To cover your bases, it would be a good investment to add in a good quality multivitamin or whole food source of nutrients like Juice Plus. Keep very well hydrated and keep caffeine to minimum- green tea is much better choice over coffee. Keep stress levels to a minimum, avoid emotional overeating and ensure you are getting enough good quality sleep. Lastly, add in some aerobics and resistance training and you are well on your way to looking and feeling better.