Unveiled: pre-wedding weight concerns and health and beauty plans of Australian brides

J Health Psychol. 2009 Oct;14(7):1027-35. doi: 10.1177/1359105309342905.

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of appearance and weight-related concerns in 879 Australian brides-to-be recruited from five bridal websites. Close to 75 per cent of the sample intended to exercise more and follow a 'healthy eating plan', while over 35 per cent planned to cut fat or carbohydrates out of their diets. On average, participants wished to lose over 8 kg (18 lbs) by their wedding day, and one-third had been told to lose weight by someone else for the wedding. These findings demonstrate the salience of appearance concerns among brides-to-be and highlight the need to promote a healthier bridal body ideal.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Australia
  • Beauty Culture*
  • Body Image
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Humans
  • Intention*
  • Marriage*
  • Middle Aged
  • Overweight
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Weight Loss*
  • Young Adult