What’s the real key to losing weight, you ask? It’s all about the weekends.

Seems those Saturday afternoon naps and Sunday morning brunches throw a real wrench into weight loss efforts. In fact, weekend indulgences can add up to as much as a 9-pound gain in a year, research shows. Read on for weekend willpower . . .

A Real Diet Killer
In a study of weekend behavior, people on diet or exercise routines consistently stopped losing weight -- or worse, gained it -- over the weekends. They showed a net weekly gain of almost 9 pounds a year! Suddenly, that Saturday afternoon double-fudge sundae doesn’t seem like such a good idea.

The Solution
Fortunately, you don’t have to lose your weekends to drop the pounds. First step: Pass on the all-you-can-eat brunch buffet. Make your own breakfast at home -- something that tastes decadent but is actually good for you. Like these guilt-free Multi-Grain Waffles and this antioxidant-packed Banana-Berry Smoothie. (And when you do overindulge, here’s how to undo it.)

Next, mow the lawn. Wash the car. Walk the dog. Just do something that gets you moving. The study participants not only ate more on weekends but exercised less -- a double whammy for your waistline. (Got 99 seconds? Then check out this brief version of the best-selling YOU: On a Diet’s waist-management plan.)