Going low carb is a fast and effective way to shed some of those extra pounds, but is it safe? The jury's still out on that one, especially considering the recent publicity this kind of diet is getting. Apparently, cutting out carbs can cause memory loss.

The explanation is pretty simple: Your brain needs a constant supply of glucose, and glucose can't be stored. According to Professor Holly Taylor of Tufts University, "The brain needs glucose for energy and diets low in carbohydrates can be detrimental to learning, memory and thinking."

Staying away from carbs? You might want to reconsider. That's not to say you should binge on white bread -- a few servings of healthy whole grains per day is all you really need. So go on, eat a piece of bread and don't feel guilty about it.