Carbs and weight loss – mutually exclusive or not? There is a thought out there that carbs and weight loss cannot be reconciled, but is it really true? Can carbs and weight loss coexist peacefully? I think it is a misconception that carbs and weight loss are not friends.

I mean, a plus-size woman would probably blame carbs for being overweight, but skinny chicks eat carbs all the time without gaining weight. What kind of carbs do they eat? They eat what can be described as “slow carbs” – think low-carb pasta and foods high in fiber. I am pretty sure they stay far away from soy protein bars or Optima diet drinks.

Carbs and Weight loss: The Plan Here is an example of a diet plan that includes plenty of carbohydrates, yet this plan is designed for people who want to lose weight.

Breakfast Personal trainer Ramona Braganza suggests an egg-white omelet with veggies and high-fiber whole-grain toast, or whole-wheat pancakes.

Snack For midmorning energy, snack on a mozzarella cheese stick and an apple. Braganza also suggests refueling with Smartwater.

Lunch Dieting does not mean having to eat lettuce all the time. Braganza suggests filling up midday with turkey on healthy whole-grain bread.

Snack Low-fat yogurt helps keep the body revved until dinner. Craving sweets? Create a pastry by topping a whole-wheat crust with fresh fruit.

Dinner Make taco night nutritious. Stuff a whole-wheat tortilla with fish, chicken or steak. Or stir-fry chicken and veggies with wild or brown rice. [via]