I'd like to amend what I posted earlier in "How Much Should You Eat?"
Yes, weight loss is dependent on eating less and exercising more. But, I over did it!
By restricting my calories too much, it stressed my body and made it dysfunctional. A dysfunctional body will not metabolize calories properly and will end up storing extra fat. Stress = fat. Healthy = thin.
Healthy diet is based on the types of foods you eat, not by the number of calories. And, how often you eat. A steady stream of regular, small meals is the easiest for your body to process, which results in even blood sugar levels, less stress on your body, and achieving healthy weight. Add some light exercise in there and your body will be happier - and thinner - than ever.
Just make sure what you are eating is a high quality food. Eat something that God made: fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meat, fish, water, seeds, nuts, tea, honey, etc. Avoid overly processed man-made foods: fast food, deep fried food, neon-orange cheese puffs, white flour, refined sugar, soda, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, etc.
Fresh, natural foods are rich in nutrients that your body needs. 500 calories of fish, steamed veggies, and brown rice will be welcomed by your body as easily digestible nourishment. But, a 500 calorie double cheeseburger will cause nothing but stress - it is hard to digest, spikes your blood sugar, turns to fat, and offers no nourishment.