There's nothing like watching that number on your scale decrease when you want it most, is there? Nothing like a little confirmation that all your good eating and good exercising is really working. Here are three foods the folks at Oxygen magazine say will work your scale so that your digits definitely go in the downward direction.

• Water. It may not be food in the specific sense, but it's vital for a well-functioning body, and the right amount of hydration can truly tip the scale in your favor. The right amount? Drink about two cups of cool water on an empty stomach and earn a 30 percent jump in metabolism.
• Almonds. They're getting more press -- read more here about this nutritious nut -- and can be a key component of a low-calorie diet. You could lose 62 percent more weight and 50 percent more body fat with a few of these in your diet. Just make it a few, though (lots of calories and fat in these puppies) or your scale just might revolt.
  
• Grapefruit. Half of one of these (or three servings of grapefruit juice) can help you lose four to 10 pounds. And the good news: You shouldn't have to alter your diet or workout routine to enjoy this prize.

So maybe grapefruit has some real power. I don't doubt it. But I don't want you walking away from this post thinking a grapefruit, a handful of almonds and two shots of water are going to transform your body on the spot. It takes time -- and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Adding some nuts to a diet consisting of pizza, cookies and Coke just isn't going to work. Know what I mean?