Even though gastric banding restricts the amount of food, it does not reduce the absorption of calories or nutrients.

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O'Rourke: In general, you want to reduce fats because they have the highest number of calories compared with carbohydrates and protein.

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Darden will also reduce total calories and sodium by 20% across their menus over the next 10 years.

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There is only limited evidence that taxes would help reduce obesity, the group said, adding that only 7% of the calories in the American diet come from sugar-sweetened beverages.

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Another winning move: As of 2009, all new Kohl's stores will have bike racks so you can burn calories, save money on gas, and reduce your carbon footprint to and from the store.

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