Well, you're right AO - a calorie isn't a calorie, but it doesn't take a fad diet to correct that. Avoid foods that have a high glycemic index (mostly simple sugars and refined carbs), minimize bad fats (saturated and trans), and eat lots of veggies, legumes and whole grains. A little poultry and fish is okay too. I can easily lose a pound a week just from eliminating all desserts other than fruit and low fat yogurt, and I gave up sodas a long time ago.