Here's a reminder: My Smoothie King post published on Tuesday, and I'm pleased to report we have 17 comments already -- that's 17 people who've put their name in the hat for a drawing that will take place today after 5 PM. You know what that means? You still have time to leave a confirmed comment here (if you have not already left one), which will enter you in the contest to win a $100 gift card. Just describe the tastiest and healthiest smoothie you'd create if you could. That simple. Oh, and by the way, we're not actually using a hat. The drawing will be done via a computer software program and in only the most random of ways.

Here's a clarification: One reader was confused by the whole "skinny" smoothie thing. Here's what the Smoothie King experts have to say about their skinny offerings:

For those Smoothie King smoothies sweetened with turbinado (raw cane sugar), guests can choose to make them "skinny" by leaving out the turbinado and adding an alternative sweetener or the option of no added sugar at all. So, if a smoothie says it contains turbinado, it will only be made skinny once the turbinado is removed ... and that is when the 20-ounce smoothie will decrease by 99 calories and 23 carbs.

There you have it: The skinny on the smoothies you could be enjoying with that gift card you just might win.

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Bev gave us the candy cane lowdown recently and shared with readers that she's curbed her once addiction to the red and white striped sticks due to concern about calories. I've got good news for Bev -- and all others who seek a reason to indulge.

A new study from Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia found that adults consumed about 2,800 fewer calories per week when they were regularly exposed to peppermint.

"Smelling or eating peppermint seems to increase activity in the area of the brain responsible for alertness," says study author Bryan Raudenbush, Ph.D. "So you won't experience a slump that prompts you to seek out a snack."

Wow. What great holiday news! Even though candy canes might be heavy on the calories, they prevent us from going overboard with other treats. So by all means, grab a candy cane -- just don't grab too many.

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