4 Cups Of Coffee A Day Could Help Reduce Weight Gain, Study Finds

CHAMPAIGN, Ill (CBS) -- Could caffeine be the way to help curb holiday weight gain? A new study by researchers at the University of Illinois found that drinking four cups of coffee a day could limit how many pounds are packed on from a diet high in fat and sugar.

Scientists studied rats and found that the ones that consumed caffeine gained 16% less weight and accumulated 22% less fat than the ones that didn't.

The study's co-author said the findings suggest that caffeine could be considered an "anti-obesity agent."

Researchers also noted that a balanced diet is the best way to stay healthy.