Fitness Carter: Alison Sweeney talks 'Biggest Loser' inspiration, fitness tips and low carb diet

Now in its fifteenth season, "The Biggest Loser" has showcased the ups and downs, weight loss wins and wails, of its contestants. And each season, host Alison Sweeney has played the role of cheerleader, emcee, challenge guide and weigh-in referee. In a Dec. 25 interview with She Knows ^[1] , Alison shared her own weight loss tips and inspirations.

When it comes to shedding the pounds, Alison believes in "being realistic."

With diet, she emphasizes keeping "healthy choices available like a bowl of washed blueberries in the refrigerator or a bag of almonds in my purse. Give yourself healthy, satisfying options as your first line of defense."

Can't seem to find the time or get-up-and-go to exercise? Alison makes working out as important as a doctor's appointment by scheduling it.

"I actually put my workouts on the calendar and wear my gym clothes out the door in the morning so I have no excuse not to get to the gym," she revealed.

And for those who indulged in fattening foods like Amaretto Mousse Cheesecake rather than almonds over the holidays, Alison suggests getting back on track with their diets by making breakfast a priority (and we're not talking doughnuts).

"Make a point to eat a nutritious, but filling breakfast — oatmeal with blueberries, cinnamon and agave is my personal choice," she suggested.

Trying to lose your post-pregnancy pounds? Alison authored a book providing details on everything from exercise to playlists for new moms: "The Mommy Diet" (click for details ^[2] ).

She believes that a low carb diet focusing on getting enough protein is essential for weight loss, as well as smart snacking.

Make "healthy choices to lead a healthy lifestyle. I focus on proteins and healthy snacks," she said.

And her favorite healthy treat provides something sweet on her low carb diet.

"Greek yogurt with blueberries, slivered almonds and agave. It tastes delicious so I feel like I’m getting a treat, but I also know I’m getting fiber, vitamin C and protein," Alison revealed.

When it comes to "The Biggest Loser," Alison singled out the first celebrity contestant, Ruben Studdard (read about Ruben's journey by clicking here ^[3] ).

"This season I loved getting to know Ruben and really all the contestants are having incredible transformations — physically and mentally," she said.