Wedding planning can be stressful and even exhausting, but no one wants to feel anything but blissful on the big day. Nutrition plays a large role in how you feel both physically and emotionally. On your wedding day, it is important to make the right food choices to help you last from morning makeup and blowouts, all the way through to the final dance. These tips will not only keep you looking your best, but will help you feel energized enough to truly enjoy the day.
Jordan Brittley
Keep Breakfast Simple but include Complex Carbohydrates
The morning of may seem like the perfect time to dive into a celebratory brunch, but instead, stick with something similar to your regular routine. Try to keep this meal as simple as possible, while still incorporating complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the brain’s preferred source of fuel, meaning without them, many people feel somewhat drained. Choose whole grains for sources of complex carbohydrates, like steel cut oatmeal or 100% whole grain toast. These fiber-rich grains take longer to digest, meaning you will feel fuller for longer, and therefore, less likely to have an energy crash later.
Round Out the Morning Meal with Protein and Healthy Fats
Keep breakfast as balanced as possible by including lean protein and healthy fats with your complex carb choice. Both protein and fat provide satiating nutrients, and also help control any spikes in blood sugar. This means, you will feel satisfied all morning long, with a steady level of energy. Lean proteins are easier to digest than high-fat varieties, so skip the bacon or sausage, opting for an egg or low-fat Greek yogurt instead. Stick with healthy fat sources like 1 TBSP of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds to provide anti-inflammatory omega-3s, too. Even easier? Choose a plant-based protein, like nuts, for a high protein and healthy fat combo in one. Try 1 TBSP of almond butter, or other nut butter, to stir into your oats or spread onto toast.
Caffeine is a morning must-have for many, but if flavored lattes, soda or juices are part of your routine, you may want to rethink your drink. The sugar in beverages adds up quickly, meaning these simple carbohydrates will leave you buzzing, followed by an energy crash. Instead, choose unsweetened coffee or tea with a milk of your choice, like a skim or almond milk latte with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You’ll still get the caffeine boost, just without the added sugars and probable crash later. In place of soda or juice, use still or sparkling water to quench your thirst. Staying hydrated helps avoid false hunger cues; plus, hydrated skin means an extra-glowy bridal complexion.
Eat Small, Frequent Meals
One major energy zapper? Skipping meals. On your wedding day, mealtime may be the last thing you care to think about, but be sure to find time for fuel. Stick with small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. Just as skipping a meal can drain your energy, overeating at meals causes similar issues. Consuming too much food at once can lead to discomfort or bloating, takes extra energy to digest, and ultimately leads to tiredness or fatigue. Instead, choose small, balanced meals and snacks. Ask a bridesmaid to stash easy, portable options, like fruit and nut bars, to avoid low energy levels and keep hunger pangs at bay.
Overall, incorporate these tips for healthful meals and snacks into your wedding day to take care of yourself and enjoy each special moment.
Style Me Pretty Contributor – Amanda Baker Lemein, MS, RD, LDN, is a Registered Dietitian and freelance writer from Chicago. She works in private practice, helping both pediatric and adult clients find healthy lifestyles that work for a variety of nutrition needs.