I would like to know how I can incorporate “bad” foods into my diet. I eat healthy, etc., but I hate being the only one at my friends birthday party not enjoying a slice of cake, because i’m afraid of weight gain. When my friends ask me to go out for ice cream I say no because I don’t want to gain weight. I’m tired of doing this. Is there a way to eat those “indulgent” foods without gaining weight? Nicole. Thank you. [via Ask Questions]

The so-called bad foods are actually good for you. What? Yes, there, I said it – you should not be afraid of eating bad foods. Let me elaborate on what I just said. Here is the deal: Assuming you are not currently overweight and not trying to lose weight, there is absolutely nothing wrong with eating a slice of cake, ice cream, burgers, french fries, potato chips, and even twinkies.

In fact, these “bad” foods are good for you because they can actually help you maintain your current weight. Research shows that strict diets have a very low rate of success. Why? Because most people are unable to eat “clean” (read healthy) all the time, and eventually, they fall off the wagon.

But here is a caveat. To stay trim and fit, you have to eat bad foods in moderation. How often can you eat bad foods? I do not know. It depends on a number of individual variables. I, for example, eat healthy during the week, but on the weekends I eat what I want, within reason, of course.

So, assuming you do not go to birthday parties every other day or your friends do not ask you to go out for ice cream three times a week, do not be afraid to eat what you want, but remember to eat healthy and exercise regularly.