What does work, even if you're trying to lose weight, is adding foods to your diet -- fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, whole grains -- and replacing less nutritious foods with these lighter, healthier choices. Not only can you make some pretty delicious and satisfying meals out of simple, wholesome ingredients, you can also lose weight while enjoying food again. According to the NYT, dieters everywhere are starting to realize this. Good for them, I think. Because as someone who has a dieting history, I can attest -- dieting stinks, and it isn't effective.

The difference between the two approaches, of course, is speed. When a person diets, the weight comes off quickly, though it usually stalls or gets gained back just as fast. The more moderate approach, which puts the emphasis back on enjoying good food, is slower. But it's a lifestyle that can be maintained and enjoyed for life, unlike a diet. And if you've ever taken the weight off once, you know ... you never want to have to do it again.