Alright, we'll admit it - dieting sucks. Feeling hungry is miserable, but sometimes it's all you can do if you're determined not to reach for that bag of chips or pig-out on an extra-large pizza. But not anymore! If you've got an afternoon craving for something filling, delicious and just a little naughty, you can eat pistachios guilt-free. There's just one caveat - you have to get them in the shell.

According to ScienceBlog.com, a recent study has discovered that the calorie-cutting benefits of pistachios increase when you have to do a little work to get to them first. For one thing, the work of breaking through the strong shells forces you to slow down a bit, giving your stomach time to catch up to your tastebuds so you'll stop eating as soon as you're full. For another, watching your shells pile up gives you a visual reminder of how much you've eaten - a cue that can help you quit snacking when your tummy is sated, rather than continuing to munch aimlessly long after you're full (come on, we've all done it).

Plus, scientists have known for years that pistachios - the lowest-calorie nut - are a yummy and easy way to fill up your belly without inhaling tons of sodium and grease. And thanks to their essential oils and healthy fats, they taste just a tiny bit forbidden for dieters who've steered clear of sweets and treats for weeks.

So next time the munchies strike at the office, be ready with a baggie of in-shell pistachios and start snacking!

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