If you’re struggling to lose weight, you’ve probably wondered why you have to be so careful about what you eat. That’s because food is the single most important source of calories in our daily diets. There are, however, several factors that go into what food you should and shouldn’t eat.

First, consume food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Eating enough fruits and vegetables can make a huge difference in your health, and even if you eat mainly meat and dairy products, these foods will still contain plenty of beneficial nutrients. Eating healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables also help you to lose weight more slowly, since these foods are digested more quickly.

Eat more food when it’s hungry. A lot of people get stuck on the idea that they should eat a small amount at a time, or they’ll eat only certain kinds of foods. The truth is, you need to eat a varied amount of food so that you can get all the nutrients you need without overindulging.

Eat fast. Many people find it difficult to stop eating a large amount of food when they’re hungry, and that’s one of the reasons they struggle to lose weight. A lot of people can eat small portions of food until they feel full, but not everyone is able to do that.

Eat smaller portions. A common mistake is to eat two or three large meals a day, but this isn’t advisable if you want to keep your energy level up and your metabolism going. Eating smaller portions throughout the day can help you lose weight without feeling deprived.

Eat less carbs. We don’t realize how much carbohydrates we eat in our diets every day, and that includes in the form of bread, pasta, cakes and cookies. We just assume that those foods are good for us, but they actually make us gain weight and raise our blood sugar levels. Instead, eat more healthy carbs such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits instead.

Eat more protein. While protein is necessary for the body, it’s important to avoid too much, since too much can slow down your metabolism and affect your hunger. So, consume more protein to burn fat off and boost your metabolism at the same time. You can find proteins in lean meats, beans, nuts, eggs and soybeans.

Eat more complex carbohydrates. This may sound like a complicated concept, but complex carbohydrates are made up of lots of good things, such as vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, which all help you stay healthy.

Eat frequently. By eating several small meals each day, you can make it easier to stick with your weight loss program and continue to lose weight even if you’re eating a lot at lunchtime.