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have your cake and eat it too

We thought that would get your attention! And it is not just a clever ploy to get you reading about the benefits of eating cabbage. Yes, it's true, you can eat cake while reducing body fat and gaining muscle.

It's just a matter of finding a balance and not over-doing it on your favourite high-calorie foods. See them as occasional treats, and not only will your body thank you, but you will better appreciate and savour the sensation of eating something you love.

It's a bit like the principles behind the French diet that has been in the news lately. When you appreciate something you slow down and really take the time to enjoy it.

So, rather than wolfing down a large block of chocolate before bed every night, limit you intake to one row a day, and savour the sensation of eating your favourite treat.

Or, like many of us, you might like to allocate one day per week when you eat anything you want (a 'free day'). Sounds good, we know, but you need to earn it by eating 'clean' (i.e. healthy and nutritious foods) for the rest of the week.

By eating a larger than normal amount of calories at one time, your metabolism will receive a boost (i.e. the rate at which your body uses energy at rest).

As well as shocking your metabolism, a free day is a good way to really fuel up for a big workout the following day. Try working one of your largest and most difficult body parts the day after your 'free day'. For example, legs or back training might be your Monday workout after a Sunday indulging in ice cream and pizza.