Shredding For The Wedding | Q+A

Question:

I am trying to slim down for my wedding next June. I am 5′ 3″ and woke up at 129 pounds this morning but fluctuate a few pounds regularly. I work out for the most part 5 days a week switching each day a different aspect of weight lifting for different body parts (chest, legs, arms, etc.). I do not do a lot of cardio, maybe 5-10 minutes after a non-leg day work out – usually treadmill. I know my lack of continued weight loss is partially due to my diet but would love some advice on what I should try to eat more of. I do try to eat salads and chicken and such. Sorry if this is too generic. Let me know if you need more info to properly answer. Thank you in advance.

– Danielle S.

Answer:

Dear bride-to-be, I’m so glad you’re addressing your shape now and not at the last minute! Your desire to focus on what to eat more of shows your positive attitude. You can’t go wrong with more vegetables and water. Try to get at least 3 cups of veggies and 6 glasses of straight water daily. More calories in the morning versus late afternoon/evening can be key to burning off what you do eat. If your diet is relatively fat-free, it could leave you hungry. A spoonful of healthy fat at each meal can help keep you satisfied and may actually prevent greater calories later. As the American Council on Exercise* puts it, “Including fat at each meal will help you to feel fuller for longer, balance blood sugar level, and increase your satisfaction with each meal.” Of course you can’t add things to your diet without reducing calories elsewhere.

For stress-free dieting, consider eating your meals with a FIRST, THEN approach:

FIRST plan your meals, THEN shop for what you need. FIRST pack your lunch, THEN you can supplement if plans change. FIRST have a glass of water, THEN eat your meal. FIRST eat your vegetables, THEN your other meal components. FIRST eat fresh fruit, THEN if still hungry have a teacup size of dessert.

Be sure to stay tuned and keep reading our Living Healthy blog for more weight loss articles, menu suggestions and healthy recipe ideas.

* https://www.acefitness.org/acefit/healthy-living-article/60/6292/fat-friend-or-foe-and-how-much-should-you-eat/

– Debbie J., MS, RD

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This article should not replace any exercise program or restrictions, any dietary supplements or restrictions, or any other medical recommendations from your primary care physician. Before starting any exercise program or diet, make sure it is approved by your doctor.

Some questions have been edited for length and/or clarity.