Fitting into your wedding gown – Healthy advice from an expert
Written by on May 8, 2014.
Tagged under: Fitting into your wedding gown, Healthy advice from an expert, healthy weight loss, wedding weight loss
Healthy advice from an expert
Here at Bride Club ME, we are not fans of fad diet pills and quick fixes. However, we understand the pressure women feel to look good on their wedding day – which can push some brides to attempt to shed the excess pounds in an unhealthy way.
Today, we speak to expert Maria Abi Hanna, dietitian at The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services, who has some sound and sensible weight-loss tips for our readers. Maria says:
To begin with, ask yourself whether you want to lose weight, drop a dress size or if you simply want to tone up and get in better shape. Set realistic and achievable goals with a logical time frame before you start. Then, follow these easy tips below and you are guaranteed to fit into the dress of your dreams.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids (water or herbal teas); aim for two litres spread throughout the day and you’ll feel more energised and alert. Water will also improve your skin and complexion, as well as curb your appetite. Make sure you don’t drink all your calories by replacing water with fluids such as juices, sodas, and black tea, coffee or alcoholic beverages. Make water your first choice.
Don’t skip meals, especially breakfast
The famous saying “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” is very true. Breakfast not only kick-starts your metabolism and regulates your appetite, but also keeps your sugar levels controlled, providing you with the energy needed for a productive day ahead.
Maintain regular eating patterns
Consume three main balanced meals, with one to two snacks throughout the day. Keep healthy snacks readily available at hand so you don’t end up going for unhealthy options or overeating. Remember to include all five food groups (grains, protein, dairy, vegetables and fruits) every day. Opt for whole-grains, low-fat dairy products and lean meats. Aim for five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables a day.
Eat mindfully and put your fork down between bites
The clock is ticking and the big day will arrive sooner than expected! You can’t afford to waste calories by eating mindlessly from the fridge, cooking pot, or while you’re on the go. Keeping a record of your food and beverage intake will help you keep track of what you are eating. No matter how hectic things get, make sure you sit down during your meals and eat slowly. After all, it does take your brain 20 minutes to signal to your stomach that you are full!
Be active
No time for exercise? Take advantage of all the running around to be done before the wedding by using a pedometer to track your daily steps; this tool will help you monitor your activity level and will motivate you to be more active. For healthy adults, the goal is to reach 10,000 steps a day.
Be selective during your meals and make smart food choices
Being a bride-to-be means there will be many pre-wedding events and dinner invitations. Watch your waistline while enjoying all the happy celebrations by:
- Always opting for items that are grilled or steamed instead of fried
- Choosing whole-grain products (brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, multi-seed bread) instead of refined ones as they are richer in fiber, which will fill you up and satiate your appetite longer
- Choosing lean cuts of protein such as beef fillet, skinless chicken breast and fish fillet, rather than lamb, drumsticks and chicken wings
- Avoiding cream and creamy sauces in the dishes, and replacing them with tomato sauce
- Starting your meal with a big bowl of green salad dressed with lemon-vinegar sauce; this will help fill your stomach faster and make you eat less
- Skipping the bread and butter basket
- Downsizing your plate and practising portion control
Thank you Maria! Looking for more wedding tips and advice? Click here. For more information on The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services click visit: www.right-bite.com.
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