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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 — 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 21: Spice Things Up!
“Spicy foods are really hot right now — forgive the pun,” says Rachel Beller, R.D., of Beller Nutritional Institute in Beverly Hills and author of Power Souping.
See More: 12 Workout Myths That Just Need to Die
“Before awards show season, many of my actress clients start putting Sriracha and hot peppers on everything. It enhances the flavor of your food in a calorie-free way, and has been shown to bump up your metabolism. And before hitting the red carpet they — like you — want every edge they can get.”
A study done at the University of California, Los Angeles found that a substance called capsaicin, which gives hot peppers their heat, causes your metabolism to double in speed, and stay elevated for several hours after eating a spicy meal. That can translate to an extra 100 to 200 calorie burn a day.
Get that hot sauce ready!
Just getting started on our 30 Day Wedding Shape-Up? Kick off your journey from Day One, here.