I want to lose 20 pounds but I am so confused about which diet to follow. Can you give me some suggestions? --Vickie

I think diet is a four-letter word that often leads to deprivation, frustration and, ultimately, failure. Stick to the basics and keep it simple by following my ABCs of nutrition -- no alcohol, no bread and no starchy complex carbohydrates like potatoes and pasta. Try to eat three to five small meals throughout the day consisting of clean proteins like egg whites, protein shakes, fish, poultry and tofu, and lots of salads, vegetables, some fruits and grains. Starvation diets don't work, so make sure not to skip any meals. And try not to eat later than 8pm.

If you really want to follow a specific diet, I would recommend the Zone. It prescribes a good balance of clean, lean proteins, healthy carbohydrates and some grains and fruits, spaced throughout the day. In addition to watching what you eat, make sure to do cardiovascular exercise for at least 30 to 45 minutes no less than four to five times per week. Remember, the more muscle you have, the greater the rate at which your body will burn fat.

Get more answers from David!