I know, I know. The pounds crept back up there, didn't they?

Consider these points before deciding to diet again. Perhaps changing your STYLE of eating, rather than a periodic diet, is the answer. This will give you a life-long answer to losing weight, rather than a short-term quick fix.

The same style of eating is not right for everyone. Neither is the same diet. Most of the overweight people that I see wanting to diet is having a metabolic problem related to a blood sugar imbalance, which can include hyperinsulinism and insulin resistance.

So let's discuss the role of carbohydrates (starches) and how our body reacts to their consumption.

Carbohydrate foods convert to sugars that trigger insulin production, which our body needs for certain processes. They also trigger fat storage, as does sugar. That is how the body works. There is no use trying to fight it, instead work with your body.

The first step is to notice how much carbohydrate and sugar being taken in every day. Then eat smaller portions of the carbohydrates we love and cut out the things that are bad for us, such as sugar-containing products and refined foods.

Will protein help? Protein counter-balances the carbohydrate problem. Eating half as much protein in relation to carbohydrates is a good place to start. Protein builds muscle mass, which helps to burn fat. So don’t eat bigger portions, just eat more protein and fewer carbohydrates. Eat a little more often as well (say four to six times a day) so that blood sugar remains more stable, without ups and downs. Now go to your cupboard and take out a few packaged goods. Take a good look at the carbohydrate to protein ratio per serving. Let’s start off with some typical cookies: Carbohydrates 17g, Protein 2g; Penne Pasta: Carbohydrates 41g, Protein 7g; Oatmeal: Carbohydrates 27g, Protein 6g. Ouch! Not enough protein in any of these to counter-balance the carbohydrates.

Do you get the picture yet? For weight loss most of us need to cut back on carbohydrates. Eat plenty of vegetables instead. You will need some sources of protein throughout the day to keep the body in balance. However, I don't suggest that you eat protein and carbohydrates at the same meal. They do not digest well together for most people.