This Nutty Idea Might Help You Stay Slim

Just like Jacki, I have a really difficult time holding back when there's a bowl of nuts around. I make the same rationalizations -- they're good for me, and they're so small, so how can they possibly make me gain weight? Well, I'll tell you why. Because, given the chance, I will eat them all.

If you have a similar nut-to-mouth problem, I have a tip for you -- choose only nuts that have to be cracked. This gives you a chance to put out your fancy holiday nutcracker, for one thing, but more importantly, having to crack the nuts will help slow you down. You'll be less likely to pick up a handful on your way out the door (or on the way to the fridge, or walking to the back door ...), and having to take more action to get your nutty goodness will make you think a little more about what you're eating -- always a good thing when you're watching calories.

Don't like any nuts in the shell? We have more nutty suggestions for you right here.