Is there anything more American than pizza? Well, specifically, Pizza Hut’s version of the Italian dish? Maybe the only way Pizza Hut could make the famous food more American is make it in a “fun size.” Well, this year, they’ve done just that. Pizza Hut recently introduced Big Pizza Sliders. So what’s the deal? Are they a better option? Or just another fast-food gimmick?

Well, let’s start with the stats. The Big Pizza Sliders are sold as three sliders for $5 or up to 9 sliders for $10. Consumers can mix and match and get up to three combinations of up to three toppings each. They end up being about 3.5 inches in diameter and can range from 230 calories for a plain cheese slider, up to 350 calories for a beef or sausage slider. The fat content ranges from 8-19 grams depending on toppings.
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There are many celebrities we’ve watched struggle with their weight through the years, and Carnie Wilson is no exception to this group. However, Wilson may be unique as she has been very candid about her struggles. Wilson has gone up and down in size and even broadcasted her weight loss surgery. As she continues to fight her battle with weight, Wilson remains in the limelight, not the shadows.

This week, Carnie’s making news as she celebrates a 40-pound weight loss since doing her second gastric bypass surgery last January. She told PEOPLE that she isn’t just relying on the surgery to carry her through, but working out regularly via the treadmill, walking and weight training sessions three times each week. Her goal is to increase her muscle mass
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There seem to be so many rules when it comes to diet during pregnancy. There are are many “don’ts” as well as “you musts” when it comes to foods that promote the baby’s and mother’s health. One of the trickiest areas for pregnant moms is the issue of fish consumption. On one hand, moms are told to get a healthy dose of fish for the omega-3s and other nutrients. Yet, on the other hand, moms are told to watch out for too much fish as the mercury levels could be dangerous to the baby. So, what’s a mom to do? Thankfully, there are some answers.

According to the Mayo Clinic, fish and seafood are touted as a great source of protein, iron, and omega-3s. All of these nutrients are important in development of the baby, specifically brain development. However, regular consumption of fish high in mercury can lead to a build up in the bloodstream which can eventually damage a growing baby’s brain and nervous system.

To handle this conundrum the FDA released guidelines for pregnant mothers regarding the mercury levels in fish. The guidelines state that no more than 12 oz. of low mercury fish should be consumed on a weekly basis. Fish in the “highest” mercury level category should be avoided completely and those that fall in the “high” category should be kept to three 6-oz servings per month.
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If you’re like many Americans, doing your taxes is a confusing chore. Deductions are crucial elements to filing taxes, especially if you’re expecting a return. However, few people know about all their options, especially their health deductions. And as we move into 2013, the new Affordable Care Act will cause even more changes to health deduction section of your tax forms, but not as much as you might think right away.

“Most major changes brought by the Affordable Care Act will come in 2014,” advised Jean Chatzky, finance expert and journalist whose Jean Chatzky’s Money School debuts this April. However, there are a few things that Chatzky advises taxpayers watch for this year:

• The contribution limit for Flexible Spending Accounts has been revised downward, to $2,500 beginning in 2013. There was no limit before, though most employers capped it at $5,000.

• Medicare payroll taxes may increase for some taxpayers. Those who earn over $200,000 as an individual or $250,000 as a couple will pay 2.35% to medicare. Those who earn less will continue paying the current rate of 1.45%.

Where taxpayers can see the biggest advantage will be in their medical-related deductions.

“Many taxpayers assume they can’t reach the 7.5% threshold to deduct medical expenses, but you might be surprised if you add it all up and include everything the IRS allows,” advised Chatzky. She provided a lot of insight on the common oversights we make that can and probably will push you to the 7.5%  threshold.
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Last night was another banner night for Hollywood as the best of the best strutted their stuff on the red carpet for the Grammy Awards. Wardrobes were discussed, performances were made, and lots of gossip was a buzz.

All those issues aside, a lot of great music was honored and many worthy artists walked away with a Grammy. It’s always a great look back at the year to recall what was playing every time you got in the car or for that matter went for a run. No matter where you listened, Grammy winners are great fodder for a one heck of a gym playlist.

This week run it out, feel the burn, or give it just a little bit more to the tunes of some of the best music of the past year.

Somebody That I Used To Know by Gotye Featuring Kimbra.

This jam was all over the place this time last year. The artist walked away with record of the year, best pop duo/group performance and Gotye scored best alternative music album.

I Will Wait by Mumford & Sons

Who knew banjos could rock? These guys have won our hearts and took home the album of the year award last night for their newest album, Babel.
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