The days are getting longer and brighter and this is the time of year when many brides-to-be get into full gear to prepare for their special day.
Needless to say, trying to ensure that people, flowers and food are all in order can be quite overwhelming. And, in some instances, the stress of it all causes brides to eat more and gain weight. Extra weight is, of course, the very last thing a bride-to-be wants to be concerned about! In fact, most are trying to lose weight to look their best.
Trying to get “that look” for the wedding day is vitally important and requires discipline and the motivation. But it doesn’t have to be difficult!
Simply follow the 10 eating tips for brides-to-be offered below. They’re all basic and easy to maintain even after the big day.
- Eliminate the sodas, high sugar drinks and drink more water.
- Cut back on fried and sugary foods.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables. Daily recommended amount is over 2 cups each per day.
- Cut your portion sizes in half.
- Plan ahead so that you eat 4 to 6 small meals.
- Choose healthy snacks with less than 100 calories, such as 100 calorie popcorn cookies, low-fat puddings, or yogurt.
- Cut back on the cookies, doughnuts, cakes and pies.
- Eat less meat: 6 ounces a day, 3 ounces for lunch and 3 ounces for dinner is what you should strive for. Also, be sure to bake, broil, boil, poach (fish) or stir-fry your meat using very little oil.
- If joining a gym is too costly at this time, enlist your bridesmaids to meet once a week for a brisk walk or workout with an exercise tape. You might also coordinate a biggest loser contest at your job or among your friends.
- And most of all set realistic goals that you can achieve.
Finally, the last tip is to make healthy eating a lifestyle and not just something that you do for a special occasion. After all, you want to avoid the extra weight that may come along with living the happy married life. By practicing these tips now, you are on your way to a wonderful and healthy relationship with that special someone and food.
Good luck and best wishes to all of the brides-to-be!
Renee Wiggins is a registered dietitian and certified fitness trainer living in the Washington, D.C. area. She has written books on healthy eating, stress management and exercise and owns Results by Renee – A medical lifestyle spa. For more information, visit www.resultsbyrenee.com.
