We’re all looking for that magic bullet that will help us lose weight and get fit… books, videos, websites… you name it.

Now it turns out the best secret to dropping pounds may be what we write.

A major study out Tuesday from Kaiser Permanente found the simple act of writing down everything you eat in a food diary can help double weight loss.

The research shows the diet diary puts people face-to-face with their food intake, and helps them make a change.

"A food diary that shows you what you are eating, what you are not eating, and how much. It's not the only tool, but it's a good one," said Cox Health Dietitian David Dade.

The American Academy of Family Physicians has these recommendations for a keeping a food diary.

They include writing down how much you ate, what time of day you ate, where you were eating, and what kind of activity you were doing, like watching TV or working.

You don't have to keep a formal diary for this to work. Post-it notes, emails, even text messages will help make you more aware of what you are eating.

Speaking of losing weight, a new class right here in the Ozarks is helping people slim down.

It’s the Buff Brides Bootcamp... and isn't just for brides.

The 8 week session started Tuesday morning, but it's not too late to get in on the bootcamp action.

Class is every Tuesday at 6 a.m. at the Doling Family Center, and costs $35 for non-members.

If you can't make the class, but still want to be healthier... check out KSPR’s newest blog “Ozarks Buff Brides.”

It includes healthy recipes from local restaurants, success stories, and my experiences with keeping a food diary.

We’ve also set up an online community where Ozarkers can chat and exchange their tips and strategies.

We included links to these websites and the Buff Brides Bootcamp in this story . You can find them in the “Related Content” box.