Bridal Beauty: Take Care of Yourself

Like many brides-to-be, you may be thinking about losing weight for your wedding day.  But please don’t go on a random, fad diet. If you are overweight, think of getting married as a path to a brand new life – and the perfect time to alter your lifestyle, food-wise, as well. And while you’re at it, assess other health aspects of your daily life, such as exercise.  

The first step towards a healthier lifestyle should begin by scheduling an appointment with your general practitioner to address your overall health and well-being and attend to any medical issues you might have. A complete assessment of your weight goals should also be part of this appointment.  

Next, research nutrition guidelines and standards to learn what a balanced diet includes. The internet is an excellent source of information, provided you visit qualified sites such as Health.gov and Mayoclinic.com.

A visit to your local bookstore for titles on healthy eating is also a good idea, but if you are pressed for time, it may be worth your while to seek out a nutritionist who can provide you with meal plan suggestions.

You likely already know the following general rules of thumb for optimal physical and mental health, but they bear repeating:

• Drink six-to-eight ounce glasses of water each day; reduce caffeine and sugar intake, limit alcohol consumption

• Eat whole grains, vegetables and fruits, lean meats, poultry and fish and avoid fast food

• Include physical activity in your daily routine, even if it's just taking the stairs instead of an escalator or elevator

• Get six-to-eight hours of sleep every night

• Learn mindful breathing or meditation as stress reduction techniques, or sign up for yoga classes

• Take advantage of the outdoors and plan other enjoyable, relaxing activities that will take your mind off of wedding planning for periods of time.