A Quick Guide to Losing Weight for Your Wedding

By Cara Orlan, Registered Dieiitian, Bridal Nutritionist

Cara@yourdietitianforlife.com

Wedding day is one of the most significant events in one's life, and many people want to look their best on this special day. While losing weight for your wedding may be a common goal, it is essential to approach it safely and with a long-term focus. A crash diet or fad diet that leads to rapid weight loss is often unsustainable and can be detrimental to your health. Therefore, modifying your lifestyle to include a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise is the key to maintain a healthy weight in the long term.

To begin, you should set realistic goals for yourself, just like you would for wedding planning. Take the same strategic approach, set clear goals for yourself each week, and make a to-do list. You can also consult with a registered dietitian to outline a weight loss plan based on your goals and timeline. That's where I come in! I am a wedding nutritionist who supports Brides to Be.

Cutting calories is one of the most common methods for weight loss, but it is important to ensure that you are not cutting too many calories, as it can backfire. A general rule of thumb is to reduce an average of 500 calories each day to lose one pound of fat per week. However, the exact number of calories your body needs to function will depend on various factors such as what you eat and how active you are. Thus, it is essential to consult an online calorie counter or an online weight loss calculator to get an idea of how many calories you need to eat each day. If you're unsure, speak with your doctor to see if this is safe and advisable based on your age and current health.

Planning your diet is crucial to ensure that your body gets all the necessary nutrients it needs to function optimally. Rather than cutting out entire food groups, reduce your intake of carbohydrates and make sure that your diet is nutritious, varied, and balanced. For instance, try cutting down on sugary foods and refined carbohydrates and opt for whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables instead.

Lastly, it is essential to remember that healthy weight loss is not a quick fix but a long-term lifestyle change. So, focus on maintaining healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep to keep the weight off even after the wedding is over.

With this practical guide, you can achieve a healthy weight for your wedding day and beyond.