Okay, we admit it. EBL wanted somehow to join in the frenzy over the royal wedding. But where would scientific evidence come in? Maybe: Does research show that two kisses are better than one? Or: What’s the effect of differences in status between two partners on long-term survival of a marriage? But no evidence-based approach to William and Kate surfaced.
Until I saw reference to the work of Cornell Professor of Nutrition Jeff Sobal in the context of William and Kate’s nuptials! Apparently (as you royal watchers will know), Kate lost a lot of weight prior to her trip down the aisle in Westminster Abbey, raising the eyebrows of the media. Is this common, many asked, or is something up with Kate?
As reported in the Boston Globe and other media outlets, Prof. Sobal has done ground-breaking work on the topic of obesity, and has written extensively on the topic of “weight and weddings” (including this book chapter).
In one widely-read article, Sobal and a colleague conducted a descriptive survey that looked at weight management behaviors among women getting ready for their weddings, as well as their ideals for body weight. Most of the soon-to-be brides were overweight and planned to lose pounds before the big day. Some purchased a smaller-sized wedding dress as a motivator. So Kate is well within the norm by slimming down before tying the knot.
EBL has only one question: Did the new Duchess of Cambridge follow an evidence-based diet? Now that she’s an example to the British and the world, we hope so!
purchased a smaller-sized wedding dress as a motivator to lose weight is a good idea you inspire me 🙂