It can be confusing, can't it lol. For example, I just learned this year that corn is a grain, not a vegetable
. I swear I have seen corn listed as a vegetable on an older copy of Canada's Food Guide!
I basically classify my foods into four groups:
starches: starchy veggies, fruits, wheat pasta, grains etc,
proteins: meats, beans (even though they are starch too)
fats: olive oil, cheese, nuts, occasional treats
unlimited: non starchy veggies, low calorie foods
I try to never include more than one starch or fat in a meal. I don't mind including two proteins like beans and chicken. Non starchy veggies and very low calorie foods are unlimited and basically "all you can eat" (reasonably) until satisfied. I find it easier to classify all carbs as starch instead of grain,beans etc. A one healthy starch per meal rule works for me.