Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Wedding day: What to eat and drink

On your wedding day, it's important to stay properly fueled and well hydrated. That said, most brides want to avoid feeling uncomfortable and bloated. Here are some tips to look and feel your best throughout your wedding day.



Remember to drink water
A jam-packed morning, along with excitement and nerves, can make remembering to drink difficult.

Tip: Buy a large, bright reusable bottle. It will be easy to spot so you won't forget to bring it along to all appointments, and it will remind you to sip throughout the day.

Avoid sugary, highly processed foods
On your wedding morning, the pastries may be in plain view and hard to resist. However, foods that are high in sugar and empty calories are low in nutritional value and will only lead to a crash when you need energy the most.

Tip: Try a mix of protein and carbs, such as a slice of whole wheat bread with peanut butter, and an apple or banana on the side.

Avoid salt
Salty foods will make your body retain water, leaving you feeling bloated and puffy everywhere. Avoid foods that are high in sodium a few days before and on your wedding day to keep bloat away.

Tip: The easiest way to avoid salt is to eat foods that are as close to their natural state as possible, or minimally processed. ie: fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins

Avoid artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are found in diet drinks and foods. According to FitSugar.com, the sugar alcohol found in certain food and drinks is difficult to digest and will leave you feeling uncomfortable and bloated.

Listen to your body
Likely, you know what works best for you. If you don't, keep track of how certain foods make you feel for a couple of weeks prior to your wedding and avoid the one that your body doesn't agree with.

Likely, between the time that you depart for the ceremony to dinner, hours will have passed. Here are some tips to keep your blood sugar stabalized and your energy levels up:

Avoid alcohol and drink water
After the ceremony, while your friends and family enjoy cocktail hour, you may be tempted by someone's offer to bring one back for you. However, it's likely been hours since you've had anything to eat or drink, so choose water to keep your mind clear until you arrive at your reception.

Have snacks handy
Ask a bridesmaid to keep some trail mix or Larabars in her clutch. You might not feel hungry because of the excitement, but nothing is worse than feeling an energy crash mid-afternoon.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, a registered dietitian or a personal trainer. I write from my personal knowledge, experience, and interest in health and nutrition. If you require nutritional advice, consult a R.D.

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