Kids sometimes look as if they're glued to their cell phones. If they could only complete their homework as quickly as they can send text messages, they'd really be set. Even better: Maybe text messaging could also help them lose weight.

Researchers are actually questioning if text messaging could become a weight management tool. We already know that keeping a journal of weight loss or other health-related goals is a tried and true method. However, many people can't stick to journaling for the long-term because it can become tedious. A recent study followed three groups -- one that monitored health goals through text messaging, one that kept a paper journal, and one that didn't self-monitor progress at all. The study included children (ages 5-13) and their parents. The group reporting progress via text message had a lower attrition rate and had significantly greater adherence to self-monitoring.

I think keeping track of weight loss progress through text messaging is a great idea -- it's convenient and it could offer instant feedback. However, I question whether it's a good idea for children and teens. Weight loss is obviously the primary goal when a child or teen is obese, but another goal must be protecting/correcting the child's relationship with food and bolstering their self-esteem. Will reporting their progress through text messaging be motivating or demeaning? What do you think?

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Fast food is getting even faster, thanks to impatient consumers and electronic ordering.

One recent survey, cited in the November 2007 issue of Reader's Digest, found that 68 percent of people will not sit in a drive-through line for more than five minutes. That's why more and more restaurants are implementing electronic ordering options for those who want their food NOW.

Pizza chains are leading the pack with this electronic ordering trend. The folks at Pizza Hut report they get 30 electronic orders every minute, and their online ordering volume has increased sixfold in the past three years. Chipotle jumped on board in 2006 and saw a 40 percent increase in the first half of 2007. Some chains are even experimenting with text-messaged orders.

What ever could be next? Orders handled from outside call centers, maybe. Read more about this possibility here.

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