What are the best foods to keep energy levels up during the wedding planning?
Starchy carbohydrates, especially those that are low GI (glycaemic index) such as wholegrain bread, wholemeal pasta, basmati rice, porridge and wholegrain cereals will provide you with 'slow drip' energy for hours after your meal. This means that they provide you with energy over time, rather than the quick fix that you get when you drink a can of coke or eat a bag of sweets. The other way to keep your energy levels up throughout each day is to eat little and often. By having small meals and snacks every three-four hours, you will be keeping your energy levels topped up and at a rate that your body can use the calories.
I need to lose a few stone quickly! How can I do this quickly but healthily?
A healthy rate of weight loss is about one-two pounds per week and this can be done by reducing your calorie intake by 500 calories per day (or exercising for approximately an hour extra per day). In four months you could aim to lose a stone to a stone and a half in weight healthily. Bear in mind that about half a stone roughly equates to one dress size. But there is no guarantee on where you will lose the weight, therefore by losing over a stone your dress may no longer suit your new shape so well. Check with the dress shop about when the fittings will take place, then you'll know when to reach your final wedding day weight.
I want to lose a little weight before the wedding - should I just avoid carbs?
Avoiding carbohydrates to lose weight has been popular with may fad diets and celebrities. The reason you lose weight when you avoid these foods is due to a number of temporary changes in your body. When you reduce your carb intake, you reduce your stores of glycogen in your muscles and liver. This is where we get our energy from so when these stores are low, we also feel tired and lethargic, usually moody and start to crave sugary foods. We also lose a lot of water stored with the glycogen. This accounts for most of the rapid weight loss, but your level of fat is unlikely to have changed much and you will not be feeling very well (headaches, weakness, bad breath, and tiredness are all common symptoms). Instead of cutting out carbs, aim to have about two-three handful-sized portions with each meal and use vegetables to bulk out your meal rather than added fat in the form of cheesy or oily sauces.
What's the best way to avoid a break-out on my wedding day?
It is actually a myth that certain foods cause you to get spots. However, in order for you to look your best, you need to be having all the vitamins and minerals necessary for health. A dietitian can assess your diet to determine if you are lacking in any nutrients and advise you on supplements or changes to make sure you are getting everything you need. Your GP can also carry out blood tests for deficiencies such as iron, folate and B12 and can prescribe the necessary supplements.
Any advice for the wedding day itself?
Make sure that you have a good breakfast. You may be feeling nervous or just really excited and this can stop you from feeling hungry, but it is important to stock up on some fuel for the day ahead. Running on adrenaline alone will only last so long! Something like a bowl of cereal, toast, or yogurt and fruit are good options.
Make sure your bridesmaids or mum have something to hand (such as boiled sweets), in case you suddenly feel faint or hungry during the wedding day.
USEFUL LINKS:
To find out the proportions of different food groups you should be
eating: www.food.gov.uk
More information on what makes up a healthy diet: www.food.gov.uk
To find a dietitian in your area: www.dietitiansunlimited.co.uk
