Kara DioGuardi Women's Health Magazine April 2010

American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi takes the cover of April 2010 issue of Women's Health magazine.

Speaking about her stunt on last season's finale, when she stripped down to a two-piece bikini to battle it out with a contestant dubbed "Bikini Girl," DioGuardi, 38, tells Women's Health, "It probably saved my job. It was a defining moment. Like, 'She's serious and industry, but also as kooky as everyone else on this panel.' "

Here's more:

On Former Idol Judge Paula: Paula and I are friends, and she's been a huge help to me. I like strong women, and Paula is a fighter. It's great that there are times on the show now where you see girl power.

On Fellow Idol Judge Simon: Oh, he's naughty, naughty, naughty! He's that guy who was a year in front of you in school, who had that smile that was so captivating, but if you went there, he would eat you alive. He's funny and quick-witted. At times, we disagree, but I dish it right back at him, because I'm from New York and I'm feisty.

On Dieting: Dieting is not my thing. I'm an eater--an Italian who doesn't eat is an outcast--but I do it in moderation. I make a special dish of vegetables and sausage with garlic and oil. If I want to get crazy, I make rice--lasagna, too.

On Her secrets To Staying Fit: I drink lots of water and sleep eight hours a night. I also exercise three times a week: 20 minutes of cardio and 40 minutes of weights with cardio. I run up and down stairs and do the elliptical. I also do step-ups on a bench.