Cash-only diet helps manage credit card debt

The cash diet is being called the cold, hard way to beat down credit card debt.

No more credit cards - and you only buy something if you have cash for it.

Experts say when you watch cash actually leave your wallet, it makes you feel more connected to your purchases and more accountable.

One woman gave it a try and says she's on track to save at least $50 a month, but admits it's been tough.

"It was really eye opening when three days in the week and im out of money," said Kathleen Elkins.

"I did buy a pair of Sperry (shoes) and there were obviously a lot of things I could have bought but it makes you really think long and hard," she added.

To avoid overspending, experts suggest to only carry the amount of cash you've budgeted for the day. And by the end of the week, the extra money goes in your splurge jar.

And another way to take the "cash is king" savings challenge is to take a selfie.

For one week, every time you swipe your credit or debit card, take a picture of yourself doing it.

That will help you focus on which purchases where necessary and which were just out of convenience.