Consider the correct diet to help combat stress and stay healthy in the run up to your big day.

Well, where to start on such a complicated and in-depth subject.

The obvious reason for trying to relax in the run up to your wedding is so that you can get the most out of the process of wedding planning. (In the months leading up to your wedding and on the day itself.) But many couples, especially brides forget that there is more to it than that. It’s a vicious circle, you’re feeling the pressure because of many reasons. There are some that you wish you could do something about but in reality, you really can’t. Like the age-old stress of getting back your RSVP’s or formulating a seating plan. BUT there are elements that you can control and by choosing the correct diet it could help massively.

Anxiety, weight loss, insomnia, dry skin or just good old nerves. All of these things not only increase your stress levels but could also be the cause of your stress in the first place. There are a few things you can do to help and improve your situation without you having to make major sacrifices.

Using your diet productively

Ensure you’re eating a healthy balanced diet. I know many of us like to try and shed a few last-minute pounds before the big day but this can bring its own problems. By starving your body of essential nutrients you could cause adverse reactions such as spots, hair loss, nail breakages and in some cases lack of sleep which will leave you feeling drained and weak. You want to be in peak physical and mental condition come your big day as you’ll certainly need a good level of stamina to last it out.

By all means don’t go crazy and eat everything just because you’ve read a blog that says this is ok. It’s all about moderation. Plenty of fruit and vegetables with lean protein rich meat like turkey or chicken, a few starchy foods like potato skins (baked not fried), some lower fat dairy and plenty of water. Balance and moderation are the key.

Hydration is so important when approaching the last few weeks of wedding planning. It will clear out toxins, increase energy levels, promote clearer skin and boost your immune system. Try and consume at least 6-8 glasses of water per day, this doesn’t include tea, coffee, fizzy drinks, alcohol or juice. (Avoid over consumption of caffeine as you’ll just be replacing those nasty toxins you’re working so hard to get rid of)

If like me you’re a fussy eater and your diet isn’t good at the best of times, now may be the perfect time to start taking multivitamins. Take a trip to your local health food store and get them to point you in the right direction for stress busting/general health supplements. Be aware though this isn’t the most cost-effective way of replacing the nutrients in your body, nor is it a long-term thing. You should first look at ways to get the best out of the foods you do like and educate yourself on their benefits.

The key when looking to maintain a healthy balanced diet yet keeping the stress levels at bay is to maintain a continual blood sugar level. We’ve all heard of a sugar high, that feeling of extreme energy after drinking a can of coke or eating a large sugary treat, as tasty as they are at the time, what goes up must come down and sadly this is due to the rise and fall of blood sugar. Changing moods as extreme as this can make existing stress or anxiety worse so avoid at all cost.

If things are starting to get too much consider introducing these items into your diet when you’re reaching for the snack draw are:

Dark chocolate

GREAT NEWS - The antioxidants in cocoa trigger the walls of your blood vessels to relax which will lower your blood pressure and improve circulation. Dark chocolate also contains a unique natural substance that creates a sense of euphoria similar to the feeling of being in love! If you are a chocolate fan and don’t want to lose it from your diet try and choose a product that contains at least 70% cocoa.

Cashew Nuts

Around 30 grams of these tasty salt free nuts packs 11% of the daily recommended value of zinc, an essential mineral that may help reduce anxiety.

Blueberries

Blueberries may seem small, but just a handful pack a powerful punch of antioxidants and vitamin C, making them mighty stress-busters. When I say blueberries I mean the fruit, not a muffin that contains a handful of them!

Interesting that Vitamin C is a factor with Blueberries as it is vital for building a strong immune system which you’ll need to fight off illness, or those little nasties that may want to take hold if your body is particularly venerable. So not only do these fruits have the power to relieve you of some stresses but also, they could help keep you strong. Look out for other foods such as oranges, kale, bell peppers and broccoli. All high in Vitamin C to help build a strong immune system.

Salmon

Putting more fish on your dish will help in so many ways. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids will help keep cortisol and adrenaline from spiking when you're feeling tense. Salmon is one of the very best sources of omega-3s. If again, like me you’re a fussy eater and fish isn’t on you nightly menu there are a few other ways to get these benefits. Flax or chia seeds are a wonderful non-fish source of Omega 3. Available in seed or oil form from most large supermarkets it’s an easy way to make sure you don’t go without this vital nutrient.

FINALLY

Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!

Exercising has so many benefits. I’m not saying you now need to spend ££££££ on a pair of running trainers and give up your life to train but simply adding in a few sessions each week will help more than you think.

I will be writing a blog in the very near future about the less obvious benefits of exercise when wedding planning so watch this space and find out if it could help you!

If you are beginning to see the negative physical effects of stress on your body or you’re struggling to control your anxiety it’s time to make changes. There are plenty of nutritional advisors available to discuss your requirements, even if you go to your local pharmacy or nutrition shop, don’t feel bad or embarrassed about something you can change. Planning a wedding can take years so make the lifestyle changes required to ensure your as strong and happy as possible to get the most from it. Don’t leave it to the last minute when it may be too late.

Part of my wedding planning service is to work with you on improving your general health and prepare you not only physically but also mentally, offer emotional support and obviously help you with that small detail, PLANNING A SPECTACULAR DAY. Contact me for more details. #tayloredweddings #tayloredweddingplanner