Americans grow in ways that sometimes do more harm than good. One of the most harmful ways is around their waists. According to nutritionists and medical professionals, America is in the middle of an obesity epidemic. Whether they are just a few pounds overweight or morbidly obese, Americans eat too much.

To combat this epidemic, all kinds of diets have been touted, from the low-carb diet to the grapefruit diet. But are Americans getting any slimmer?

Health experts say, of course, that there is no magic solution - other than a diet low in fat, high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and regular exercise.

But those who love their sweets and grease may wonder: "How do I control that craving that says 'just one more fry or one more donut?' "

For one company in Dallas the answer is a piece of candy.

Mosaic Nutraceuticals has developed LeanLicious, a strawberry-flavored candy filled with 400 milligrams of 20:1 hoodia.

Hoodia gordonii, a South African shrub featured on CBS's "60 Minutes" and in Oprah's magazine, is used to help control hunger before the next donut craving takes root.

"It sounds a bit funny, candy stopping hunger, but it's true," said Charles Townsend, chief executive officer of Mosaic. "Our LeanLicious product can and does work to curb your appetite."