The number of diet plans on the market today is overwhelming and confusing. From low-fat and low-carb to high protein, it is a challenge to decide what option is the healthiest. The U.S. Department of agriculture's "2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans" recommends a balanced diet of lean proteins and slow carbs, with a reduction of fast carbs.
Step 1
Eat lean protein. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, protein should make up 10 to 35 percent of your diet. Choose lean meats such as chicken and fish over red meat, which is high in saturated fat. Other sources of protein include beans, peas, nuts and seeds.
Step 2
Eat more slow carbs. Forty-five to 65 percent of your diet should be from healthy, slow carbs. Slow carbs take longer for the body to digest, and provide more nutrition and fiber than fast carbs. Whole grains in bread, rice and pasta, beans and vegetables are good sources of slow carbs.
Step 3
Eat fast carbs in moderation. Your body quickly converts fast carbs into glucose, which can lead to weight gain and blood sugar issues. Many fruits and sweet vegetables that have fast carbs are healthy because they offer vitamins and minerals. Avoid or limit fast carbs in the form of sugar or refined grains such as soda, cookies, candy, white bread, white rice, white pasta, chips and other junk foods.
Step 4
Divide the food on your plate. The challenge to eating right is figuring out how to ensure your diet has the right percentages of foods. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends dividing your plate so that 30 percent are vegetables, 30 percent are grains, 20 percent is protein and 20 percent is fruit.
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