Instead of getting on a fad diet, only to crash and burn a few weeks later, it's best to eat wholesome, natural foods in five or so small meals a day, according to anti-aging expert Dr. Maoshing Ni.

Dr. Mao, as the doctor of Chinese medicine and author of the best-selling book Secrets of Longevity is known, says a good weight-loss diet includes lean proteins, such as chicken breast; legumes, such as split peas and lentils; and whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Fad diets, he says, almost inevitably deny a person some important nutrients, leading to cravings all too often cause the dieter to regain his weight - and perhaps even more. He advocates eating the following as part of a sensible weight-loss program:

1. Millet. This is a wonderful, non-glutinous, non-acid-forming whole grain that is 10 percent protein and packs lots of fiber and B vitamins. It and its cousins (whole wheat, whole oats, etc.) should be substituted for refined foods such as white rice and pasta.

2. Asparagus. This vegetable contains lots of chlorophyll, folate, fiber and vitamins A, C and K. It also has the carbohydrate inulin, which improves overall digestion by encouraging the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria.

3. Pomegranates. These fruits are high in fiber and low in calories. As they're making you feel full, they're pumping you up with antioxidants that help prevent cancer - as do other red- and blue-colored fruits.

4. Pine nuts. These seeds of the pine tree are used in Chinese medicine to aid digestion. Pine nut oil is even used to suppress appetite.

5. Green Tea. This drink, even though it has some caffeine, is a great alternative to high-caffeine beverages like coffee and various sodas and energy drinks, which can provoke stress-related eating.

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