Dieting can make you slim and you might very well become “the biggest loser” – in the money department that is.

As it turns out, if you are watching what you eat, you should probably watch your wallet, too.

University of Minnesota researchers recently discovered that dieting can increase the likelihood that you will spend your money impulsively. Why? The scientists theorize that you have only a limited number of mental resources to allocate toward self-control.

If you are using these resources to resist certain food cravings, you become more prone to giving in to other temptations — such as buying that fabulous pair of Jimmy Choos or that new high-def plasma TV.

Some money-saving advice: Don’t touch products you don’t need, says study author Kathleen D. Vohs, Ph.D. That sensory stimulation will increase your desire to buy.

Furthermore, do not obsess about dieting and take it easy. Relax, find a diet that you like, add some exercise to it, and you will reach your target weight sooner than you think. [via]