Can Citrus Make You Slim?

Got a taste for tart? That might mean good things for your waistline.

The research is early, but a new animal study suggests that naringenin, a compound in grapefruit, could help stop the pounds from piling on.

Citrus Secrets
In the study, researchers found that mice with symptoms of metabolic syndrome gained less weight from a high-fat diet when they were on a naringenin supplement. Not only that, but the rodents' cholesterol and triglyceride levels and insulin sensitivity also improved. More support: Check out this human study that found weight benefits to eating grapefruit.

Liver Logistics
Naringenin seemed to work its magic by causing the liver to burn excess fat rather than storing it as extra pounds. But keep in mind that the mouse study used much higher doses of the flavonoid than what you would get from eating grapefruit or drinking the juice. Still, we already know that naringenin -- found in oranges, too -- has some potentially special powers. Example: Find out how naringenin is good for your skin.

Natural Nip and Tuck
Trying to lose a few? Here are some other natural strategies for keeping your waist in check:

• Have a little liquid refreshment. A combination of the key ingredients in this yummy smoothie recipe can help stifle hunger.
• Call a friend when you get the munchies. Find out how a monthly cell phone call helped people keep off the weight they lost.
• Know this magic number: 275. Here's how it helps you keep weight off.

Do you know your diabetes risk? This quick quiz will calculate it for you.