When planning for your wedding, one of the most important things you can plan for is a happier, healthier you. Whether “healthier” means losing extra weight, quitting bad habits or just keeping peace of mind until your big day, reaching your goal and maintaining it can be as easy as saying “I do.”

Pre-wedding:
Before deciding on a diet or health plan, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking a step back and reflecting on what your goal is and what obstacles might prevent you from reaching your goal. With that in mind, be sure to choose a plan that works for you. A few recommendations include:

• Go on a 15-30 minute walk during your break.
• Eat more proteins and fewer carbs. Fuel your body; don’t deprive it!
• Lift free weights (or any heavy item, such as a phonebook or a water jug).
• Change up your routine each day to ensure maximum results.

It is also important to remember that no matter how near or far away your wedding day is, crash dieting, or failing to eat regularly, is never the answer and can prevent you from losing weight and make you sick. If you have questions about dieting or exercise, visit your local AFC Urgent Care to speak with our experienced medical staff.

The Big Day
On your wedding day, don’t get so caught up monitoring everything that you forget to monitor your own hunger! Weddings are a lot of work, and a good breakfast and light snacks throughout the day can help prevent stress and fatigue.

At the beginning of the day, eat a good breakfast. Granola and yogurt, fruit or oatmeal can all make great breakfast choices that are quick and easy. Also, between your service and reception, make sure healthy snacks such as fruits, low calorie drinks and desserts are available. Be sure to drink lots of water to stay hydrated and prevent feeling stiff and sore.

At the end of the day, have a plate of food packed for you to take with you for the night. Having this food prepacked can prevent the need for any late night pizza deliveries!

Happily Ever After
After the “I do,” don’t lose your new “you” as you transition back to everyday life. The American Heart Association’s Choose to Move program recommends maintaining 30 minutes of physical activity a day, as well a choosing healthier food options. It is also important to remember that when couples of differing lifestyles try to be active together, the less active lifestyle will usually win out. To prevent this, here are a few ideas that we recommend:

• Choose date night activities that are not centered around food.
• Maintain your own pre-wedding routine!
• Revisit your doctor to talk about your progress and any questions you may have.

Fitness Magazine says, “your relationship will be more successful and happy if you are personally happy.” We at AFC Urgent Care agree, because health and happiness start with you. So congrats on your wedding, and best wishes for a happy and healthy life together!