New research says crime television shows may cause overeating.

If you're trying to lose weight, stay away from crime television. New research says watching shows like "Law & Order," "The Closer" and "CSI" makes you pack on the pounds.

In the study published in the "Journal of Consumer Research," authors say people who have been recently reminded of their impending mortality (read: bloody death scenes and violent crimes) spend more on groceries -- and actually eat more food.

"We found that when people think about the fact that they're going to die someday -- not now, but someday -- they want to consume more of everything," says Naomi Mandel, co-author of the study and an associate professor of marketing at Arizona State University. "We find this with snacks and drinks but also all kinds of different foods: frozen foods, meats, vegetables, everything."

The bottom line: Enjoy suspenseful shows to your heart's delight --- just temper the drama with some real-life perspective.