Suppose, just suppose, it’s not your food choices that are making you fat, but rather how you eat. In other words, the speed at which you eat, the type of dinnerware you’re using—even your dinner companions. Imagine losing 2 or more pounds per month, 12 or more pounds by peak beach season, and 24 or more pounds in a year by making no other changes to your diet than modifying these seemingly superficial factors.

Impossible? Not at all.

This novel weight-loss strategy is based upon the fattening fact that our brains register fullness about 20 minutes after our stomachs. This lag time causes overeating and ultimately, weight gain. So here’s the simple solution: By making a few easy changes to your eating style, you can slow down your swallowing and allow your brain to catch up with your belly. As a result, you’ll consume fewer calories without feeling any less satisfied. Plus, you’ll be able to continue to enjoy your favorite foods because you’ll be at less risk of overindulging.

If this sounds like the weight-loss program you’ve been waiting for, here are 10 scientifically-based suggestions for how to set a smarter table and otherwise arrange your meals. You don’t have to do all of them to succeed; just pick the ones that are most appealing and that fit your lifestyle. Combined with a regular walking program, it’s the ticket to your skinniest summer yet.