For some people, getting married means packing on the pounds. If you and your spouse want to avoid gaining weight and would prefer to set the stage for a healthy lifestyle, here are some ways to get started:
Eat at home.
Fast food joints and even sit-down restaurants usually offer indulgent meals heavy in fat and salt. The only way to truly know what you are getting is by preparing your own meals. Your diet should include lots of fruits and vegetables and heart healthy oils such as extra virgin olive oil. Good fats such as those from nuts and avocados should override bad fats such as those from cheese and butter. Fish should make more appearances on your plate than steak. Designating a time to cook and eat together can also provide an opportunity to bond and enjoy each other’s company.More Resources: Cooking Help for Newlyweds
Learn to Cook Together
Drink water.
Although a glass of red wine is known to have health benefits, you take in empty calories when you imbibe lots of alcohol. Soda and other soft drinks often have lots of sugar. Plain old water is your safest bet. It keeps you hydrated, is great for your skin, and can actually fill you up, so you’re less hungry.More Resources: Are You Drinking Enough Water?
Work out together.
Instead of lounging around watching television, you and your spouse can get up and do something. Go to the gym for a work out – or do one at home if you have the right equipment and know how. You could also play games together like racing on a nearby track, playing one-on-one basketball, or joining a softball team. These activities will get your body in shape, keep you healthy, and give you something new to do together.More Resources: 6 Weeks to a Healthier Lifestyle
Stress less.
Stress can cause lots of health problems – from high blood pressure to stomach troubles. Finding time to unwind and relax is imperative to your health. Give each other massages or do something fun to take your mind off work and responsibilities. Be a sounding board to one another. Whatever you do, find time for your relationship and relaxation because you want to be able to grow old together. Stress will just make you cranky, tired, and sick.More Resources: How to Deal with Stress and Anxiety
Have sex.
A person weighing 105 pounds and participating in 20 minutes of foreplay and another 20 minutes of sex burn 90 calories. It might not be much, but it’s something – and this sort of activity could help free you of stress, too!More Resources: How to Improve Newlywed Sex
