Wouldn't life be easier if a magic calorie-burning pill did exist? One that has zero side effects and is actually good for you?

Just think about it -- if a pill like this were available, we could enjoy all of the fabulous food our country has to offer minus the extra weight and the hefty serving of guilt that comes with over indulging.

Unfortunately, this pill hasn't been invented -- yet. Which means we actually have to do something -- eat less or workout more -- in order to keep off the pounds.

And while you know you can clock more hours at the gym or cut your serving sizes in half to shed those hardest-to-lose last 10 pounds, there are a few minor tweaks you can make to your current weight loss diet and exercise routine to help you burn a few extra calories.

To come up with these sneaky calorie burning and trimming tips, we spoke to fitness and lifestyle consultant Ashley Borden. She says that in addition to the few "old school" practices of "walking your dog more often, parking further away, and taking the stairs," there are other easy ways to burn more calories in order to lose those last few pounds. Though these weight loss diet and exercise suggestions may seem minor, they add up quickly. So keep reading. After all, bikini season is just around the corner ...

Limit your liquids to herbal tea and water only. Drinking even light juices or diet coke will prevent you from shedding those last few pounds, says Borden. If you need a fruity fix, eat and peel your fruit, don't drink it. You'll get more fiber and less sugar that way.

Eat with chopsticks -- even when you're eating grilled fish and vegetables instead of chicken chow fun. "People who use chopsticks tend to eat way less and get fuller faster because chopsticks slow you down," says Borden. This is one of the biggest rules of thumb when it comes to eating right. If you eat too fast, your body can't register that it's full, so you'll keep eating unnecessary calories.

No time to exercise before or after work? Burn a few calories while you're on the job. Borden likes the virtual jump rope for this purpose (try Airope Original, 34.95). It's easy to tote (you won't whip any colleagues), and two simple minutes of jumping will get you off your bum and blasting calories. Don't have an office with a door? Head outside for your virtual jump rope sesh.

You've heard it before, but it's worth repeating: "Fat is your friend," says Borden. "It satiates you, which in turn quells sugar and white flour cravings." Find good-for-you fats in avocado, olive oil, and fish.