How to Go Out, Eat What You Want, and Still Lose Weight

If you've ever tried to lose weight, you know that eating everything you want all the time is not going to get you results — but neither is eliminating all your favorite foods. So when it comes to indulging smart, take The Biggest Loser: Australia trainer Michelle Bridges's advice: set yourself up for success.

Thinkstock | kzenon

As a weight-loss coach, trainer, and author of The Total Body Transformation ($23), Michelle shares this tip with her clients so that they can eat their favorite foods without the guilt. The gist: have a before-and-after plan, so you can indulge in everything you want without falling off the healthy bandwagon. If you're going out on a Saturday night, for example, Michelle recommends starting the day with an effective workout and the right food choices. "Eat clean, light, small portions," she advises. "You might take out your snacks, because you might want to save that for a couple glasses of wine at night. Then when you go out, you have your meal. There's no guilt, and there's no beat-ups."

The second part of your plan should be what you're going to do the day after your night out or cheat day. "Go for a walk or just be active or have your meal plan set up," Michelle recommends. "You're having your moment, but then you have a plan, so you're not waking up and going, 'Oh my god, what have I done? Forget it. Let's go out for breakfast and have pancakes.'" This two-pronged approach to indulging will help you stay on track without giving up or feeling like you've sabotaged your success.