Photo: Courtesy of SodaStream
This is it… The final countdown to your big day. And along with settling those last few details — figuring out where to seat your eccentric Uncle Carl, firming up the flowers, deciding on your first dance song — you’re likely also making one last push to make sure the body that will be wearing that gorgeous white gown looks as good as it possibly can. You and nearly every other woman with an engagement ring on her finger. In fact, research shows that an overwhelming 91 percent of brides-to-be are anxious about their weight. But from here on out, you won’t have to be!
Whether you want to drop those last few pounds or look more toned — or both — we’ve got a month’s worth of daily tips (none of which require starving yourself or working out nonstop!) that will help you feel stunning and confident when you walk down that aisle. You know where to send the thank-you card. Let’s get started!
Day 13: Drink Up!
No, not champagne, silly! We’re talking about good old H2O. Make sure you get plenty of it every day. “Research shows that sipping water before a meal helps fill you up, and being well hydrated will prevent bloating and give you glowing skin,” says Vandana Sheth, R.D.N., a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Scared you won’t be able to give up that calorie-heavy soda habit? Replace it with water! Invest in a SodaStream to kick that nasty habit to the curb in no time. Bubble your own water at home any time, then toss in some cucumber slices or fresh fruit, like strawberries for extra flavor — cucumbers help with the glow, trust us. You’ll be looking at your H20 as a special treat, just like that.
Miss the caffeine? Brew up a batch of unsweetened iced tea (it counts toward your daily quota, as does coffee).
See More: 5 Ways to Maximize Your Outdoor Couple’s Workout
How much sparkling water should you aim to drink daily? The same as flat water! There are no hard-and-fast recommendations (that eight-glasses-a-day business is actually bunk). But Sheth suggests dividing your body weight by two to get the number of ounces you should be consuming. For example, a 120-pound woman would need the equivalent of seven and a half cups a day. Bump that number up if you workout, and aim to guzzle seven to 10 ounces of fluid every 10 to 20 — and have another cup of water within 30 minutes after you stop.
Just getting started on our 30 Day Wedding Shape-Up? Kick off your journey from Day One, here.