Originally Posted by MontgomeryMeigs

I would like to suggest the Dash Diet. No counting calories (which I loathe), and in following the outline of the plan I've rarely felt hungry. The book contains quite a number of recipes, and even if you can't cook you can use the recipes to get an idea of what types of foods are better for you to eat.

I would also suggest combining this with a plan called the 52 Day Fitness Challenge. One sets personal goals, fitness/exercise goals, and establishes a goal for 'clean eating'. The duration of 52 days helps establish new habits.

The structure of the plan for clean eating particularly helps with success. Too many diets seem to emphasize if you have one slice of pizza, you're off the diet and a failure. The 52 Day Challenge is structured with the recognition that humans are imperfect, and that if you 'fall off' the plan for one meal one can correct on the next meal, and still continue toward your goals.

In short, I think both approaches allow a considerable degree of latitude and personal freedom, with the advantages of developing better habits while losing weight and improving fitness.