McDonalds helps businessman slim

McDonalds never fail to offend health buffs and nutrition experts, with its French fries, Quarterpounders, and other food products being blamed for obesity among Americans. A Virginia man, however, credits the fastfood outlet for his losing about 80 pounds.

But Chris Coleson, who was 278 pounds in December, did not gorge on McDonald's fattening offers. Rather, he feasted on the hamburger chain's healthy menu such as salads, wraps and apple dippers, less the caramel sauce.

After six months, Coleson, who stands 5 feet and 8 inches, tipped the scale at 199 pounds. His waistline has trimmed from 50 to 36 inches.

Coleson, 42, said he opted to dine regularly at McDonalds because it was convenient for him considering his busy schedule as a businessman. He aims to trim down further until he reaches 185 pounds, his weight when he wed Tricia Summer a decade ago. The couple will celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary on Saturday, although he did not indicate if their menu would still be McDonalds' greens.