New research out of Australia suggests there's a magic number when it comes to eating a balanced diet of protein versus carbohydrates and avoiding weight gain: 15.

The latest study, published online at PLoS One (Public Library of Science) October 12, supports the widespread theory that upping protein intake can help fend off the extra pounds. But the research also suggests that a diet made up of 15 percent protein does the job of quelling hunger pangs and keeping saturated fats to a minimum.