Do artificial sweeteners really make you pack on the pounds? The answer may surprise you

Every now and then I hear someone say that artificial sweeteners are at least partially responsible for our obesity epidemic. They claim that somehow artificial sweeteners increase hunger or the desire for carbs or both. Their reasoning goes like this. Over the past 35 years, the use of artificial sweeteners has dramatically increased. And over that same period of time, the percentage of Americans who are overweight or obese has increased from 30% to 70%! Coincidence? Maybe. But now a new study has enough data to put this controversy to rest.

The "sweet" way to make exercise easier

Do you hate to exercise? Is it getting harder and harder to make yourself get on the treadmill or go to the gym? If so, I've got some great news for you – and it involves chocolate!

That's right! Chocolate might just make exercise a little easier for you.

The three-nutrient combination to drop weight and prevent disease

If you are heavy and love to eat, you probably know that you're increasing inflammation in your body. Visceral fat increases your risk for vascular disease, cancer, liver fat infiltration, and ages you faster. But new research shows one of my favorite nutrients can increase your metabolism and prevent these illnesses.