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9 Foods to Avoid (and What to Eat Instead) to Dodge Bloat on Your Wedding Day

by Kimberly Jacoby

Bride being measured under her bust
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Okay, let’s face it—worrying about wedding day bloat is no one’s idea of fun. It’s like an uninvited guest you really did NOT RSVP for. But before you start spiraling and considering extreme measures like skipping meals, take a deep breath. The truth is, there’s a smarter way to look and feel your best on your big day that doesn’t involve starvation or misery. Trust us, your dress AND your photos will thank you later.

Here’s the deal—wedding day nerves are real, and many brides find their appetite naturally dips due to jitters. That said, skipping meals entirely isn’t the answer. You’ll need consistent, healthy fuel to keep your blood sugar steady, your energy levels high, and your mood balanced (because no one wants to deal with “hangry bride” territory).

To help you feel light, radiant, and your absolute best, here’s a guide on what NOT to eat to keep bloating, sluggishness, and crankiness at bay. Plus, we’ll share some stellar alternatives to keep you satisfied and glowing.

Foods to Skip to Beat the Bloat

1. Wheat-based Foods

Yes, those morning pastries or anything with gluten can pack a surprise punch to your abdomen. Wheat is notorious for causing belly bloat because it’s not always the easiest carb to digest. Swap your Danish for something like eggs or oatmeal—your dress will hug your figure beautifully, no puffiness required.

 

2. Chewing Gum

Chewing gum might help with nerves, but it’s a sneaky culprit that makes you swallow air. And swallowed air equals bloating. Also, put straws on the no-go list for the same reason. Stick with sipping your drinks straight from the glass instead.

 
3. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and kale—usually healthy superheroes—should be benched for the day. These fibrous veggies lead to gas and bloating, and worse, you might find yourself fighting an urge to burp (yikes, not aisle-appropriate!).

 
4. Wine and Alcohol

Yes, you’re celebrating, and yes, you deserve the world (cheers to that!). But step away from the wine glass. Alcohol, especially wine, can cause your face to flush and puff up, which isn’t quite the wedding-day glow you were going for. Stick to hydrating drinks until after the photos are done.

 

5. Foods with Artificial Sweeteners

Saccharin, aspartame, sucralose (looking at you, Splenda users)—these are tough for the body to digest. They may leave you bloated and uncomfortable, which isn’t ideal for walking down the aisle in that perfectly tailored gown.

6. Carbonated Drinks

Even if you’re craving soda for a caffeine hit, resist the urge. Bubbles mean bloat, which spells trouble for photo-ready midsections. If energy is what you need, make friends with green tea instead—it’s gentle and bloat-free.

7. Salty Snacks

While chips and pretzels sound like safe options, all that sodium makes you retain water, causing puffiness where you least want it. Swap your salty snacks for raw nuts or unsalted almonds to keep water retention under control.

8. Cheese

We’re here to say “I do”… NOT to cheese. While delicious, it’s hard to digest and could even turn your nerves into nausea. Better safe than sorry, especially today!

9. Beans

Ah, the “musical fruit.” Beans are impressive nutrition powerhouses on most days, but their, erm, gaseous qualities make them no-go territory for your wedding. Save the chili for post-honeymoon hangs.

 

What Should You Eat?

Now that the no-way list is sorted, let’s talk about what you CAN enjoy confidently. The goal is simple—choose fresh, wholesome foods that balance your blood sugar, fuel your energy, and keep you happy and glowing.

1. Fresh Fruits

While bananas and dried fruits can cause bloating, other fruits like watermelon, berries, and oranges won’t. Plus, watermelon’s high water content is great for keeping you hydrated.

2. Balanced Salads

Fuel your body with a hearty, healthy salad. Think leafy greens, grilled chicken, and avocado with olive oil and vinegar dressing. Bonus points for adding hydrating veggies like cucumber.

3. Raw Nuts

Natural almonds or unsalted nuts can help curb hunger without inducing bloat. They’re easy to snack on if you’re running between hair, makeup, and photos.

4. Herbal Tea

Chamomile tea is calming (nerves, begone!) and gentle on your stomach. Sip on herbal teas that are caffeine-free and soothing.

5. Chia Seeds

Sprinkle this superfood into yogurt or smoothies. Their omega-3 content can enhance your skin’s glow, giving you that extra bridal radiance.

6. Asparagus

This natural diuretic helps beat water retention and keeps bloating in check. Sautéed asparagus is an excellent pre-wedding lunch side dish.

7. Egg Whites

Make a simple, protein-packed egg white scramble. They’re easy to digest and provide the energy you’ll need to dance the night away.

 

Final Tips for Picture-perfect Prep

  • Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It helps your system run smoothly and prevents any bloating caused by dehydration.

  • Be Strategic About Timing: Eat smaller, frequent meals to keep energy steady without overwhelming your stomach.

  • Listen to Your Body: Don’t try anything new or exotic the day before or day-of. Stick with foods you know your stomach love

 

 

By keeping these dietary do’s and don’ts in mind, you’ll feel confident, comfortable, and absolutely stunning as you say, “I do.”

Want a stress-free honeymoon to match your big day? Contact us below to make your travel dreams come true! 🌴

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