Fit into Your Dress

By: Maria Abi HannaAre you getting married soon or know a lady who is? Even if you’re not ready to hit the aisle or you’re already married, these tips will sure help you get in shape this wedding season. A woman’s wedding day is one of the most important events in her life. That is why a bride takes on a great effort for all the hard work and meticulous planning that goes into her special day, including finding that dream wedding gown! The pressure to look their best on the day of their wedding pushes most brides to resort to quick fixes to shed off excess pounds. Unfortunately, quick fixes are not foolproof.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 hydratedDrink plenty of fluids (water or herbal teas); aim for two litres spread throughout the day and you’ll feel more energized 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, black tea, or coffee. Make water your first choice.Don’t skip meals especially breakfastThe 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 patternsConsume 3 main balanced meals with 1-2 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 bitesThe 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 twenty minutes to signal to your stomach that you are full!Be selective during your meals and make smart food choicesBeing 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 fibre, which will fill you up and satiate your appetite longer• Choosing lean cuts of protein like 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 thus make you eat less• Skipping the bread and butter basket• Downsizing your plate and practicing portion controlBe activeNo 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 track your activity level and motivate you to be more active. For healthy adults, the goal is to reach 10,000 steps a day.Maria Abi Hanna is a Dietician at The Right Bite Nutrition and Catering Services LLC.www.right-bite.com