What to eat and drink the day before a big event

Whether it's a wedding, a reunion, or a big night-out, here are five easy steps to ensure you'll look and feel your best in your party duds.

1. Bloat-proof your belly. Don't spoil the perfect fit of your perfect outfit! Avoid anything salty -- from pickles to Chinese takeout -- for at least 24 hours before party time. Limit carbonated beverages, too, which can add sodium and make you feel gassy. You don't want that!

2. Bring on the sleep. Forget the last-minute running around the night before. Instead, have a nice warm bath and, if possible, a gentle massage. Kinda hungry? Have some chamomile tea (mildly sedating) with a drizzle of honey (makes you less alert) and a banana (two sleep inducers and a muscle relaxant).

3. Create a caffeine-free zone. If you need wake-up coffee in the morning, fine. But then stop. Stock up on iced herbal teas, fruit juices, and bottled water. If you've got jitters, caffeine will make them worse. Coffee's a diuretic, so it'll make you pee a lot and could lead to dehydration -- a serious energy sapper.

4. Space out the alcohol. Summer celebrations often mean a nonstop flow of champagne, wine, and cocktails. But you want to be dazzling, not dim (and definitely not dehydrated, sleepless, or hung over -- all risks of an open bar). So...

  • The night before: Give yourself a two-drink limit. Or stick with wine spritzers with tons of ice.
  • At breakfast: Skip the mimosas, and sparkle up your OJ with a splash of seltzer.
  • For toasts: Sip your champagne, don't drain the glass. Pace yourself so you don't miss a minute of the fun.

5. Eat something! There may be tons of party eats, but it may be tough to get a healthy bite. To keep your energy up, hunger down, and tummy flat, go for the fish, chicken, and salads -- but have a plan B: Stash an energy bar or some Brazil nuts in your purse. Just six nuts give you 4 grams of protein and some healthy fat, a combo that will keep you going.

More On

10 foods linked to illness outbreaks

video

10 foods linked to illness outbreaks
It's always best to know how to track and properly respond to food recalls. Know which foods are the most impacted and how to take care of yourself.
What to know about dietary supplements

article

What to know about dietary supplements
Not all pills, capsules, and powders do what they claim—and some are even dangerous. Learn how to stay safe.
Mediterranean-style dinners under 600 calories

slideshow

Mediterranean-style dinners under 600 calories
Make quick, healthy meals inspired by the Mediterranean-style plan.
5 easiest vegetables to grow at home

video

5 easiest vegetables to grow at home
Have you considered growing your own vegetables and fruits? Here are some easy options to start out.
Loma Lindan banana berry smoothie bowl

video

Loma Lindan banana berry smoothie bowl
This banana berry smoothie bowl includes fiber-filled leafy greens and a protein boost that can help you to feel energized and full.