Try out the following strategies to slim down and feel great:

 

• Plan ahead.Many weddings take at least a year to plan. Just as you put careful thought into the perfect dress, reception and cake, any weight loss goals you have should be planned out carefully as well. Most likely it didn't take a couple of weeks to gain those extra pounds you want to lose, so don't expect you can wait until the last minute to lose the weight. Make sure you run through our mind training map so you have the strength and motivation to reach your goals.

 

• Think lifestyle, not quick-fix diet. The healthy eating component of a wedding weight loss routine is one that can be hard to get used to. However, once you start treating your body to healthier food, it is easier to resist falling back into an unhealthy diet.

 

• Do Atkins together.Could your fiancé stand to lose a few pounds? Make your weight-loss a team effort. Doing Atkins as a couple will help make healthy eating habits an important foundation of your marriage. Get your fiancé involved in the shopping and cooking, and helping to plan meals. If your fiancé does not have to lose weight, enlist some bridesmaids or your maid of honor to join you.

 

• Be prepared. Before you start Atkins, review what you can eat for the Phase you are starting on. Before you get started on Atkins, purge your pantry and fridge of processed, packaged, high-carb and sugary foods that may sabotage your weight-loss efforts. Hit the grocery store and stock your kitchen with fresh vegetables, meats, fish and healthy fats such as avocadoes, almonds, olives and olive oil. Plan out some recipesfor the week, and make sure you have all the ingredients you need for each dish, which can help you avoid slip-ups in your wedding diet routine. And then, make it a habit to go grocery shopping every week to stock up on ingredients for homemade meals that you can repurpose throughout the week. This will make it easier to make meals at home and help you resist the temptation to call in for delivery after a long and busy day.

 

• Don't skip meals. Skipping meals is unhealthy and will make it more likely that you'll binge eat later on. Focus on portion control and making better food choices instead of completely eliminating foods from your pre-wedding diet. Eat small, nutritious meals throughout the day that are packed with high-fiber vegetables, and protein choices like eggs, chicken, fish and lean meat. Incorporate healthy fats like avocado and nuts, and a good snack or breakfast can be plain Greek yogurt topped with berries and slivered almonds. Shoot for three meals and two snacks a day.

 

• Start your morning with breakfast. It's been said many times before; breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Although it's the most skipped meal, starting your day with breakfast can jumpstart your metabolism and will keep you feeling full longer. People who eat breakfast regularly not only lose weight, but also keep it off. Because most people are busy and rushed in the morning, breakfast is often skipped due to lack of time to prepare. One way to avoid this is to plan out your breakfast ahead of time. Making delicious quichesor enjoying Atkins Day Break bars are both excellent solutions.

 

• Sample in moderation. Sampling cakes and appetizers is one of the best parts of planning a wedding, so don't miss out! Have fun sampling the treats you'll serve on your big day, but make sure to balance it out with healthier low-carb meals before and after your tastings, or increase your activity level to make up for the extra indulgences.

 

• Write it down. Tracking your meals is a great way to stay on track with a wedding diet plan. Use the free Atkins support tools such as our meal planneror carb counter to easily stay on top of what you're eating no matter where you are.

 

• Find a workout you enjoy.In addition to getting into a healthy eating routine with your wedding diet, it's also important to find a workout routine that works for your body and that you enjoy. While planning for a wedding, there are enough checklists and to-dos that it can be hard to find time to get to the gym. But exercise can also help reduce the stress you may be feeling. Signing up for workout classes, like yoga or cycling, will help you feel accountable for attending and can be fun. Once a workout class is on the calendar, make sure you commit to it. If you need a little extra motivation, try signing up for classes with your bridesmaids.

 

• Set the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits.Request some of your new favorite low-carb recipes to be served at your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner and reception or ask your caterers to create something fabulous and original based on your dietary preferences. Kick off your wedding day with an invigorating hike with your bridal party or plan a fun and active group activity on the day of your rehearsal dinner.