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Fact: Red meat, pork, chicken, and fish contain some saturated fat and cholesterol. But they also have nutrients that are important for good health, like protein, iron, and zinc.

Eating lean meat (meat without a lot of visible fat) in small amounts can be part of a healthy weight-loss plan. A serving size is 2 to 3 ounces of cooked meat, which is about the size of a deck of cards. Choose cuts of meat that are lower in fat such as beef eye of the round, top round, or pork tenderloin, and trim any extra fat before cooking. The "select" grade of meat is lower in fat than "choice" and "prime" grades.

Myths:

• Fad diets work for permanent weight loss.
• Skipping meals is a good way to lose weight.
• "I can lose weight while eating anything I want."
• Eating after 8 p.m. causes weight gain.
• Certain foods, like grapefruit, celery, or cabbage soup, can burn fat and make you lose weight.
• Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective.
• Nuts are fattening and you shouldn't eat them if you want to lose weight.
• Eating red meat is bad for your health and will make it harder to lose weight.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than frozen or canned.
• Starches are fattening and should be limited when trying to lose weight.
• Fast foods are always an unhealthy choice and you should not eat them when dieting.
• Fish has no fat or cholesterol.
• High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight.
• Dairy products are fattening and unhealthy.
• Low-fat or no fat means no calories.
• "Going vegetarian" means you are sure to lose weight and be healthier.

Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.