“Simply knowing how many calories an item has isn’t really that meaningful,” says study author Sara Bleich, PhD, an associate professor of health policy and management. “The exercise equivalent of an item is easier to comprehend and carries more weight than calories alone.” While this study looked at teenagers, Bleich says all of us could benefit from picturing the sweat we’d have to expel to zero out those empty calories. And we have to agree. One measly cookie doesn’t seem like a smart trade for a 2-hour walk on the treadmill. Of course, it’s definitely great to treat yourself once in a while, and obsessing about calories isn’t fun or healthy. But if you find yourself succumbing to your sweet tooth more than you’d like, this trick could help you stay on track—or at least inspire your to split your treat with a friend. The next time you’re tempted, here’s a little calorie perspective: MORE: 15 Teeny Tiny Changes To Lose Weight Faster
