Quote Originally Posted by Jessica Loesch View Post
I'm getting my masters in the next year and a half and becoming a registered dietitian. I have lots of nutrition training and am currently involved in a dietetic internship.

There is no reason to cut out lean meats and fish from your diet. Other than that, you sound like you are on the right track. As JLC said, tis the right balance of low fat dairy, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and I'd like to add lean proteins such as chicken/turkey breast, fish, beans, and nuts. And cutting out pre-packaged/processed foods when possible.

As others have mentioned, "diets" are a bad idea. It's a way of life, which you seem to understand, but I wouldn't be following any type of diet as much as understanding the food pyramid and balancing out healthy foods along with allowing yourself to have a treat here and there.
Also, I advise against "cheat days" as they can make a lot of progress disappear fast. You need to have treats in moderation. Portion sizes are imperative. Cheat days, no. Treats here and there in moderation, good.

And remember to balance calories in with calories out.

Good luck.
That's awesome your an actual dietitian (or going to be).
Out of curiosity, what are your recommendations for daily protein intake in a non-athletic individual?
and do you have any issues with the current food pyramid?
and what is wrong in regards to "cheat days"? are you ok with "cheat meals"? is it the overall caloric surplus or probability of low nutrient density?