What's the perfect balance of protein, carbs and fats for ma

The fact that all these semi-reputable sources disagree with each other (and that their founders all have success on the diet) indicates to me that none of them really know the answer. Probably, the answer is that certain diets work better for some people, and other diets work better for others. You'll have to work experimentally to figure out what works best for you.

MFP seems to assume that the best blend is roughly 2g carbs for every 1g fat and 1g of protein (2-1-1). In actuality, I tend to eat something more like 1-1-1, and that seems to work fine for me. But I also build bulky muscle very quickly, so I probably need a bit more protein than somebody who doesn't do that.

I agree with drosenbauer about the different ratios being thrown all over the place. I tend toward higher fat and protein than MFP likes to suggest, because I've found it keeps me satisfied. At the end of the day, if you're eating mindfully and eating real food almost all of the time, it comes down to calories in calories out, and the ratio is just what makes you feel the best. Experiment, and good luck to you!

I would recommend doing high protein, healthy fats, and low carbs (with carbs being natural fruits and vegetables -- not processed).

*Here is a great tool that you might be interested in . . . . http://www.healthcalculators.org/calculators/protein.asp

*Here is an article on types of fats from Mayo Clinic . . . http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fat/NU00262

Everyone has different opinions as far as percentages . . . some people do 50% protein, 30% fats, 20% carbs, others 50% protein, 30% carbs, 20% fats, and some are more towards 40% protein, 30% fats, 30% carbs.

The most important thing -- in my opinion -- is to eat many raw fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and some healthy fats. AND drink tons of clean water!

For example:

Breakfast:
2-3 eggs (scrambled or omelette)
Add in vegetables - bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, broccoli, etc.
Orange

Snack:
Raw Almonds

Lunch:
Tuna fish on celery sticks instead of bread (You can add Mayo and pickles to your tuna -- I like the Kraft Mayo with Olive Oil)
Apple slices with peanut butter

Snack:
Carrots dipped in hummus

Dinner:
Gigantic Salad (family size)
-Use different colored greens: spinach, romaine, "wild" greens
- Add in many colors: different colored bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, zuchinni, red onions, radishes, cucumbers, etc.
- Throw a protein on top: chicken/fish/lean meat
- For fat: Add avocado or olives or a more fatty dressing (Ranch)
*If using an avocado, you might want to use salsa for a dressing so you don't go overboard

Snack:
Grapes, strawberries, or blueberries with Greek yogurt

I didn't add up the calories from the day above but I just wanted to give you an idea of what a typical day might look like for you. I am not a dietician, medical professional, or anything like that. I am just speaking from experience of what has helped me in the past.

BTW . . . I am 33 yrs. old and 5'6'. I was down to 140 lbs. when I followed this religiously -- paired with high cardio/ kettlebell/crossfit training. Unfortunately, recently I lost track due to holidays and other personal and family issues so I am back up to 163. I am in the process of recommitting to these goals but I currently have my diet diary set to "private." I hope to soon change it back once I can get back on track LOL

Feel free to add me as a MFP friend. I tend to be better at helping others than doing the right thing for myself. HAHAHA