Women often tend to let go of themselves post their big day, leading to weight gain and loss of stamina. Experts tell you how to take care of those kilos in a healthy way

Wedding is the time when most women take it easy. While they want to look the best for their big day, once it's over, the waistline is the most neglected part of their being as marital bliss sets in. Says fitness expert Mamtaa Joshi, "While most of us make an extra effort to lose weight and tighten up any flabby bits to look good in our wedding dress, most women end up gaining weight immediately after marriage."

In fact, a study conducted in the US has shown that 22 per cent of newlywed women put on weight within the first year after their wedding, with an average gain of 10 kilos. The research also revealed that a third of all brides found it difficult to keep up a healthy diet and exercise regime once they didn't have their wedding day looming to motivate them constantly. If you're a newlywed, here's what you should watch out for.

What leads to post-wedding weight gain

Hormones play a big role in weight gain post marriage, say fitness experts. According to a research conducted in the US, the emotional shift that comes with commitment can cause a change in brain chemistry, which may affect our weight. Relaxing into a deep attachment to a mate has the effect of increasing oxytocin — the 'love drug' brain chemical that is linked to bonding.

However, hormones are only a part of the problem. Often, women tend to relax too much and don't take care about what they eat till they realise they are heavier, opine trainers. Fitness expert Vinod Channa says, "I get cases where many women want to get back into shape after their marriage or want to reduce fat, build stamina, strength and flexibility." Seconds Joshi, "Women often come and tell us that they were thin before marriage and suddenly put on a lot of weight. I recommend a strict diet and exercise plan for them."

Plan your diet

Diet plays a very important role in losing weight post marriage. Says Channa, "Eat food that contains lesser calories and is less oily. Avoid bakery products, sweets and fattening foods. At night, prefer to have vegetable soup, tofu, fish, green vegetables and sprouts. Most importantly, keep a tab on your consumption of carbs during the day," advises Channa.

Choose the right workout

If you wish to lose those extra kilos, select appropriate workouts that will help build strength, stamina and improve your flexibility. "Any form of cardio exercise with endurance training or swimming should be combined with diet control," says Joshi. You can also burn more calories by selecting workouts for your legs and back or opt for jogging or yoga.

Tips to lose that weight

-Exercise daily

-Try any form of cardio exercise or take up swimming

-Vary exercises on regular basis so that it does not become monotonous

-Going for a brisk morning or evening walk with your husband is also recommended

-Sleep well

-Have food with less fat percentage.

-Check your diet intake when eating out.

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