Wondering what to eat before a date?
Foods That Reduce Anxiety
Foods that are high in dietary fiber are great to eat before a big date because they’ve been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain that’s linked to anxiety. Opting for plant-based foods such as lentils, beans, nuts, seeds and grains can help you feel calmer and at ease.
Our Lentil & Rice bowl is full of anxiety-busting fiber, plus it’ll keep you full all night long. You can even keep the yoghurt dressing garlic-free if you’re worried about garlic breath. If you’re looking for more ways to spice up your meals and keep your energy levels steady, check out our foods that give you energy.
Foods to Freshen Your Breath
We all know that bad breath is a major turn-off on a first date, so eating strong, lingering foods are a big no. Instead, pack your plate with plenty of crunchy vegetables like carrots, peppers and cabbage, as these help produce more saliva to fight bad-smelling bacteria.
A textured salad like our Crunchy Vietnamese Chicken salad is ideal to eat before a date because it uses raw veggies for extra crunch. It’s even topped with toasted peanuts for calming fiber. If you want more ideas for fresh, light meals, check out our vegetarian meal plan, which focuses on wholesome, nutritious dishes that leave you feeling refreshed.
Foods for Clear Skin
Foods that are high in bioactive compounds like vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene can hydrate your skin, making it appear firmer and brighter. This one isn’t a quick fix however, so make sure you’re incorporating foods like grapes, passion fruit and soybeans into your diet 8-12 weeks before the big date.
Roasting grapes is a delicious way to add them to savoury meals, as they add a dose of sweetness to balance out salty flavours. Try them out with our Middle Eastern Spiced Chicken and Farro recipe. If you're looking for more ideas to eat clean and nourish your skin, check out our flexitarian meal plan, which includes a mix of plant-based and lean protein options that are great for your skin.
Foods to Line Your Stomach
Dates can often involve consuming one too many cocktails, so eating a substantial meal before you head out is really important. Healthy fats like salmon and avocado are good to eat before a date because they slow the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into your system.
Salmon with greens and potato will keep you full for the rest of the night, while still being light enough to keep you energised.
Foods to Line Your Stomach
Celebrity Dating Guru, James Preece, also shared his tip on what to eat before a date: "It's a good idea to eat a little dark chocolate before you go out on a date. That's because it's a great source of tryptophan, which causes the brain to release relaxing feel good chemicals such as serotonin. Alternatively, a cup of green tea can help calm you down before you head out.
There's no better way to head to a date feeling calm and happy, so whatever you choose to eat, make sure it's delicious! For more tasty meal inspiration, head to our Weekly Menu