'American Idol' made Paula Abdul gain weight

"The Biggest Loser" and "Dancing With the Stars" have successfully slimmed contestants down, but can "American Idol" make you fat?

Well, sorta. That's what Paula's saying. And we all know that what Paula says is gold.

The former "Idol"  judge was looking all svelte and toned in a black fishtail gown, prompting reporters at the American Music Awards backstage Sunday to ask her to divulge her secret.


Apparently, having more free time and less stress (read: less Simon Cowell) can do wonders for your health.

"First and foremost I've had the ability to have time to have a schedule that allows me to take care of myself and dance and workout," said Abdul. "It's been great, but now I'm back to work."

So, does this mean that once "Idol" returns we have license to pig out? Ellen DeGeneres is joining the party and who knows what kind of short hair war that will start with Simon and Ryan Seacrest!

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