actually, the best "diet" i was ever on was when i was taking care of my mom who was a diabetic and was put on insulin. i put us both on the standard American Diabetic Association "Diet" (meal plan--you can get printouts at your doctor's office).

i cooked us both three well-balanced meals a day. neither of us exercised although i was very active taking care of her. the key was the portion size. it's all on the list, i.e. 1/2 cup of beans, etc. and watch the salad dressing proportions, margarine, etc. and you just substitute the foods on the list for each food group to vary up the meals. i also used sugar-free chocolate pudding mixes, etc. for "desserts". surprisingly very good!

and i lost 20 pounds in just a few months! and felt very healthy too. anyway, moderation is best i guess, and you don't have to starve yourself!