Ask Mary

To maximize weight loss, you need stay within your calorie budget.  What you eat and the distribution of nutrients is not as important.  But within your calorie budget, you need to eat balanced diet for the nutrients it provides. The best "combination of sugar/protein, carbs, etc." is actually within a wide range, depending on an individual's preference.  Focus instead on eating wholesome foods from all of the food groups in the correct portions for you you to lose weight.  Learn how to plan a simple balanced diet within your calorie budget in the Calorie Count Blogs.