I just read an article on clean eating - the do's and dont's of clean eating. A couple things jumped out at me ...
1) Creating a balanced plate ... That plants, starch and lean protein create a balanced plate, yet starches should be limited. In other words don't have bread, a starch, a glass of wine and a dessert with a meal. Either of those four items paired with plenty of plants and lean protein will create a balanced plate. I think this is a good rule of thumb - to always view it as a 'meal foursome' from which you get to pick just one.
And when picking one ...
2) Go for sprouted whole-grain, organic, naturally sweetened etc. goods that are clean and don't contain artificial ingredients. This will not only offer a more unique less processed and more sensory experience in enjoying quality over quantity (being higher quality goods) it will be better for your body and help meet and maintain weight loss goals.
The famous saying "you can't have your cake and eat it too"is too true! Not on this journey at any rate ...