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The Winter Habit That Could Be Quietly Sabotaging Your Health Goals

6/13/2026

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

A few weeks ago, I compared a range of popular muffins available in South Africa, and one of the biggest take-home messages was this:

Marketing and health are not always the same thing.

Words like bran, muesli, gluten-free, high-fibre, no added sugar and home style often create a perception that a product is automatically healthy. Sometimes that's true. Often it's only partly true.

The answer, as always, is hidden in the nutrition information table.

Which brings me to rusks.
As the weather gets colder, many of us find ourselves reaching for a warm cup of coffee or tea and a couple of rusks. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, enjoying food is something I actively encourage. Anyone who has worked with me knows that my goal is never to create fear around food or to make eating feel restrictive. I want you to enjoy food, feel satisfied, and find a balance between nourishing your body and enjoying life's little pleasures.

See the Rusk comparison below. The occasional indulgent rusk is not the problem. The issue is what makes up the majority of your daily nourishment.

Why Reading Labels Matters
When we compared a variety of popular rusks, the differences were surprisingly large.
Some products contained:
  • More than double the fibre of others
  • Nearly three times the sodium
  • More than double the calories
  • Significantly more sugar
At first glance, many of these rusks look equally healthy.
But the nutrition label tells a different story.

A useful rule of thumb is that 15 g sugar per 100 g or less is generally considered reasonable. In other words, 15% or less of the product is sugar. Several rusks exceeded this benchmark. While a rusk may not taste particularly sweet, sugar still contributes calories and can influence blood glucose control, appetite regulation and overall diet quality.

Why Fibre Matters So Much
One of the clearest findings from the comparison was how much fibre varied between products.
Higher-fibre foods generally help:
✔ Increase satiety
✔ Support digestive health
✔ Promote more stable blood sugar levels
✔ Support cholesterol management
✔ Help keep you fuller for longer
This is one reason why the Dietgenic Bran Rusks performed so well in the comparison. They contained substantially more fibre than many of the commercial alternatives.

When your goal is health, weight management, cholesterol control or blood sugar regulation, fibre is one of the most valuable nutrients you can focus on.

The Problem With "Just Two Rusks"
Many people think of rusks as a light snack.
But let's put that into perspective. Two rusks from some brands can contribute a similar amount of energy to an entire calorie-controlled meal. YIKES!

The question isn't only:
"How many calories does this contain?"
The more important question is:
"What am I getting for those calories?"
Are those calories providing:
  • Fibre?
  • Protein?
  • Vitamins and minerals?
  • Lasting fullness?
Or are they mostly coming from refined carbohydrates, sugar and fat?

This is where the concept of calorie quality becomes important.
Not all calories are equal in terms of how they affect hunger, fullness and nutritional value.

A 400-calorie snack that leaves you hungry 30 minutes later is very different from a 400-calorie meal that provides protein, fibre, vegetables and sustained energy.

Calories Matter — But Context Matters More
I often hear people say:
"I don't count calories."
And that's perfectly fine.
However, calories still count.

Whether your goal is weight loss, weight maintenance or weight gain, energy balance remains important.
What matters is understanding where those calories come from.
Calories that nourish your body, support fullness and provide valuable nutrients will almost always serve you better than calories that come primarily from sugar and refined ingredients.

That doesn't mean every food needs to be perfect. Far from it.

The 80/20 Principle
One of the most important concepts I teach is balance.
Your favourite Saturday morning rusk ritual is not the problem.
The occasional Bakers Romany Cream Rusk?
Enjoy it.
A Tennis Biscuit Rusk with your coffee?
Also enjoy it.
Birthday cake, chocolate, dessert and restaurant meals all have a place in a healthy lifestyle.
The issue is not what happens occasionally.
The issue is what happens consistently!

Health outcomes are largely determined by the foods that make up roughly 80% of your daily fuel and nourishment.
If most of your choices are nutritious, balanced and satisfying, there is plenty of room for the foods you enjoy.

So Which Rusk Came Out on Top?
Based on the products assessed, the Dietgenic Bran Rusks emerged as the strongest overall performer.
They offered:
  • 🏆 The highest fibre content
  • 🏆 The lowest sodium content
  • 🏆 The lowest energy density
  • 🏆 The lowest fat content
  • 🏆 The lowest carbohydrate content
  • 🏆 Good protein content

Most importantly, they delivered more nutritional value for the calories consumed.

The Bottom Line
The goal isn't to stop eating rusks.
The goal is to make informed choices.
  • Read the label.
  • Compare products.
  • Look beyond the marketing claims.
  • Choose foods that offer more fibre, less sugar and better nutritional value.
  • AND to enjoy them! 

Because good nutrition isn't about punishment.
It's about creating a way of eating that supports your health goals while still allowing you to enjoy the foods you love.
Small choices, repeated consistently, are what ultimately help you achieve your health goals. 
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Why Not Try a Homemade High-Fibre Rusk?

After comparing all these commercial rusks, one thing became very clear: The best nutritional profile isn't necessarily found on the supermarket shelf.

If you're someone who enjoys a rusk with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, why not try making your own?
This Health Rusk Recipe, below, is one I've recommended for years because it strikes a much better balance between taste, satisfaction and nutrition.

Unlike many commercial rusks, which can be surprisingly high in sugar and calories while being relatively low in fibre, these rusks are packed with ingredients that help keep you fuller for longer.

What Makes These Rusks Different?
  • High in fibre from oat bran, digestive bran, Hi-Fibre Bran cereal, wholewheat ProNutro and apple
  • Lower calorie option at approximately 80 kcal per rusk
  • More filling and satisfying than many commercial alternatives
  • Provides slow-release energy rather than a quick sugar hit
  • Supports digestive health and regularity

A Snack Should Actually Satisfy You. One of the biggest misconceptions in weight management is that a snack should simply be "low calorie."

A truly effective snack should also help manage hunger.

There is very little benefit in choosing a snack that is low in calories if it leaves you raiding the biscuit tin 30 minutes later.

Remember the Bigger Picture
As I've mentioned throughout this article, the goal isn't perfection.
You don't need to give up your favourite Tennis Biscuit Rusk, Romany Cream Rusk or other family recipe.
Food is meant to be enjoyed.

But if rusks are part of your daily routine, it makes sense to choose options that support your health goals most of the time.
Think of indulgent rusks as an occasional treat and keep more nourishing options for your everyday habits. Because ultimately, it's not what you eat once in a while that determines your health outcomes—it's what you do consistently.

If you're looking for a rusk that is high in fibre, lower in calories and genuinely satisfying, give this Health Rusk Recipe a try. Your taste buds—and your health goals—may thank you for it.
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The One Habit That Can Transform Your Shopping Cart

5/30/2026

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AuthorAuthor: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

There is Golden Rule when it comes to healthy shopping: If a food comes in a packet, box, tub, bottle, sachet, or wrapper, read the nutrition label.This is one of the simplest and most valuable nutrition habits you can develop.

Click here for the SHOCK OF YOUR LIFE! A recent, May 2026, muffin comparison illustrates this perfectly. Most people would assume the bran muffin was the healthiest choice. Yet it contained the highest sugar content and the lowest fibre content of all the muffins compared.

Food manufacturers are incredibly good at making products look healthy. Words such as bran, wholegrain, natural, multigrain, low fat, high fibre, or made with real fruit can create what nutrition professionals call a health halo—the perception that a food is healthy before you've looked at what's actually inside it.

Add attractive packaging, pictures of grains, fruit, nuts, or healthy-looking ingredients, and it's easy to assume you're making a good choice.

But here's the reality: The front of the package is marketing. The back of the package is information.
That's why the golden rule is simple: If it comes in a packet, box, sachet, or wrapper, turn it around and read the label. 

Many people avoid label reading because it feels complicated. There are calories, fats, sugars, sodium, fibre, protein, serving sizes, ingredients lists—and suddenly choosing a snack feels like writing an exam.

The good news is that you don't need to analyse everything at once. Start with just two things:

Step 1: Check the Sugar ContentAim for foods that contain less than 15 g sugar per 100 g most of the time.
Step 2: Check the Fibre ContentAim for foods that provide 5 g or more fibre per serving whenever possible.

These two numbers alone can tell you a lot about whether a food is likely to satisfy you and support your health goals.
Once you're comfortable with those, you can gradually start looking at:
  • Protein per serving
  • Saturated fat per 100g
  • Sodium per 100g
  • Calories per serving

In general, foods that keep you fuller for longer tend to be:
  • Higher in protein
  • Higher in fibre
  • Lower in sugar

Click here for the SHOCK OF YOUR LIFE! A recent Woolworths (May 2026) muffin comparison illustrates this perfectly. Most people would assume the bran muffin was the healthiest choice. Yet it contained the highest sugar content and the lowest fibre content of all the muffins compared.

That's why nutrition is about what's in the food—not what the packaging suggests.

Remember: Don't buy the marketing. Buy the nutrition.
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Top 5 Nutrients to Focus on This Winter

5/30/2026

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AuthorAuthor: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

Dont blow up your Dischem and Clicks account - First things first is a "Food First" approach which focuses more on nourishing your body without breaking the bank.

When winter arrives, many people head straight to the supplement aisle looking for a quick fix. While supplements can play a role when recommended by a healthcare professional, most of us can meet many of our nutritional needs through everyday foods that are affordable, accessible, and enjoyable.

This winter, focus on building meals around these five key nutrients to support your immune system, energy levels, muscle health, and overall wellbeing.

1. Vitamin D – The Sunshine Vitamin
Vitamin D is essential for immune function, bone health, and mood. During winter, many people spend less time outdoors, which can contribute to lower vitamin D levels.

Food Sources:
While sunlight is our primary source of vitamin D, some foods can help:
  • Eggs (especially the yolk)
  • Pilchards and sardines
  • Salmon and trout
  • Fortified dairy products and cereals
  • Mushrooms exposed to sunlight

Don't forget the sun! Even in winter, regular sun exposure remains important.
Aim for:
  • 10–30 minutes of sun exposure on the face, arms, and legs several times per week
  • Mid-morning or early afternoon exposure where practical
  • Avoid prolonged exposure that may lead to sunburn

Winter is also a great opportunity to stay active outdoors. A weekend family walk, gardening, hiking, cycling, or simply spending time outside can help support vitamin D production while benefiting physical and mental health.

Winter Menu Idea: Mushroom and spinach omelette with wholegrain toast, served with a side of fresh fruit. Now thats sounds like a solid immune boosting breakfast! You can also download this 20 Minute Chicken Mushroom Pan Dish  recipe

2. Vitamin C – Your Winter Immune Supporter
Vitamin C helps support immune function and acts as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. The good news? You don't need expensive supplements to get enough.

Budget-Friendly Food Sources
  • Oranges and naartjies
  • Guavas (one of the richest sources)
  • Kiwi fruit
  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers

Winter Menu Idea: Hearty vegetable soup with tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, and beans, served with wholegrain bread and a fresh citrus fruit for dessert.

3. Zinc – Small Nutrient, Big Impact
Zinc plays a critical role in immune health, wound healing, and maintaining healthy skin.

Everyday Food Sources
  • Lean beef
  • Chicken
  • Eggs
  • Baked beans
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Peanuts

Winter Menu Idea: Lentil and vegetable curry topped with toasted pumpkin seeds and served with brown rice.
This provides zinc, fibre, and plant-based protein in one budget-friendly meal. You can also download a tasty comforting Meatball Soup, here. 

4. Protein – The Building Block Nutrient
Protein helps maintain muscle mass, supports recovery, and contributes to a healthy immune system. It also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer during colder months. 

Smart Protein Choices
  • Eggs
  • Chicken
  • Lean beef
  • Fish
  • Milk, maas, and yoghurt
  • Beans and lentils
  • Split peas
  • Soy products

Winter Menu Idea: Slow-cooked bean and beef stew packed with vegetables and served with sweet potato or samp and beans. For a vegetarian option, try a three-bean soup with plenty of vegetables. Download a tasty Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, here 

5. Omega-3 Fats – Supporting Heart and Brain Health
Omega-3 fats help support heart health, brain function, and healthy inflammatory responses.

Food Sources
  • Pilchards
  • Sardines
  • Salmon
  • Trout
  • Chia seeds
  • Flaxseeds
  • Walnuts

Tinned pilchards and sardines are often some of the most affordable and nutrient-dense options available.
Winter Menu Idea: Wholewheat toast topped with pilchards and avocado, served with a side salad or add ground flaxseed to your morning oats for an easy omega-3 boost.

Bringing It All Together
This winter, think "food first" before filling your basket with costly supplements. A diet rich in whole foods can provide many of the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and resilient through the colder months.

Simple Winter Habits to Remember:
✔ Include protein at every meal
✔ Add colourful fruits and vegetables daily
✔ Enjoy oily fish regularly when possible
✔ Choose beans, lentils, and seeds for affordable nutrition
✔ Spend time outdoors and stay active, even if it's just a weekend walk
✔ Make warming soups, stews, and casseroles part of your weekly menu

Small, consistent choices can have a big impact on your health this winter.
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GET YOUR GROOVE BACK

2/26/2026

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Author: Jeannine Stokes-Waller

Registered Dietitian (SA). Dedicated to helping you live healthier - one simple sustainable step at a time 

Meal prep magic—time‑saving prep tips you’ll love, because your time is as precious as your health.

Life gets busy, but your health doesn’t have to take a back seat. The secret to feeling energized, confident, and back in rhythm? Smart, time-saving meal prep. With just a little planning, you can turn everyday cooking into a stress-free routine that fuels your body and frees your mind. Think batch-cooking proteins, chopping veggies ahead, or portioning snacks so they’re ready when hunger strikes. These small steps add up to big wins—helping you eat well, save time, and rediscover the joy of nourishing yourself.

Because when your meals are prepped, your groove follows. Here are three meal prep magic recipes with tips to make life easier for the three meals of the day.

BREAKFAST
  Easy Muesli
  • Batch Cooking, make once, eat trice.
  • Make a big batch of the muesli at once, store it in a glass bottle or airtight container and breakfast-on-the-go is ready for many mornings when you need it.
  • To change the muesli up a bit and give more variety nuts, chia seeds, cinnamon and fruit can be added on the morning it is served for breakfast.
  • Click here for ALL the recipes 

LUNCH
  Bran muffin
  • Freezer‑Friendly Meals: use bigger size recipes or double recipes and freeze the extra for future busy days.
  • Take out the frozen muffins the evening before or early in the morning when needed.
  • To up the protein intake with the muffin add boiled eggs, low fat cottage cheese, peanut butter, chicken breast or biltong.
  • To increase the fiber even more add a mixed salad, fruit or vegetable sticks on the side.
  • Salads can also be batch-made in bulk and then split up in a few 1 or 2 cup portions. Dish each portion into a glass bottle or air-tight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days to use as needed.
  • Click here for ALL the recipes 

DINNER
  Slow cooker Chicken Salsa
  • Use a clever appliance like a slow cooker that prepares the meal while you are at work or busy.
  • Making a one-pot or one-pan dish means less dishes to be cleaned adding bonus time in your day.
  • Mix & Match Staples: Cook grains (brown rice, quinoa, couscous) in bulk. Freeze extra portions and use as needed.
  • Leftover Love becomes ”Second day Delicious”. Use the leftover chicken dish in a small brown wrap or sandwich for lunch or dinner the next day or eat it as a leftover meal.
  • Click here for ALL the recipes 

By taking a little time to plan and prep smart today, you enjoy healthy ease tomorrow.

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You Haven’t Failed At Your Health Goals — You Just Need to Adapt

2/26/2026

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

If you’re already feeling behind on your January goals, take a breath.

This is your reminder: nothing has gone wrong. Life didn’t suddenly become “too much” because you’re doing it wrong — life just happened. Kids are back at school. Work is busier. Maybe you’re travelling more, studying after hours, or simply trying to keep everything afloat. That version of the plan you made in January? It might not fit anymore — and that’s okay.

Progress isn’t about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about adapting and continuing, one day at a time.

Movement doesn’t have to be all or nothingIf exercising 5–6 times a week feels impossible right now, it probably is — and that doesn’t mean you should stop completely.
  • A 10-minute walk still counts
  • Parking further away or taking the stairs at work adds up
  • Maybe movement only fits in on weekends for now — that’s still movement
Small actions done consistently are far more powerful than big plans that never happen.

Meals don’t have to be perfect to be helpfulHealthy eating isn’t cancelled because a meal isn’t “ideal.”
Even when things are rushed, you can still manage portions and make choices that support you:
  • Add protein first
  • Add some fiber where you can
  • Let go of perfection

Convenience can still be nourishing:
  • A rotisserie chicken from the deli + a quick salad
  • Microwave veggies with any meal
  • Ready-made meals from Woolworths or Checkers — there are plenty of options with decent protein and fibre if you look for them
Choosing something good enough is always better than giving up completely.

And yes… we’re working on something to make this easierWe know that even with the best intentions, cooking doesn’t always happen.
That’s why we’re busy developing ready-cooked, delicious meals, prepared for you and delivered to your door — single and family-sized portions, at a more affordable price.
Same values. Less effort.

👉 Join the waitlist for tasty done for you meals!— we can’t wait to share this with you.

You are not doing this alone. If this season feels heavy, you’re not weak — you’re human.
We’re here to support you:
  • 👉 Join our WhatsApp group for weekly tips, reminders, and encouragement
  • Real-life strategies, not pressure or perfection
  • A space to help you keep going when motivation dips


You haven’t failed.
You don’t need to start over.
You just need to adapt — and take it one day at a time.
And that? That’s more than enough.
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Get Outside & Make Active Summer Memories

12/16/2025

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

Summer is the perfect time to get the family outdoors, move your body, and make memories that don’t involve screens. If you’re not heading to the coast this holiday, Gauteng has you covered — it’s packed with incredible hiking trails for every fitness level. From easy scenic walks to more adventurous routes like river crossings at Hennops, there’s truly something for everyone.

​Hiking is a fun way to stay active, explore nature, and spend quality time together. Whether you’re planning a quick morning walk or a full-day adventure with friends or family, getting outside can boost energy levels, improve mood, and add a little adventure to your holiday routine.

LINKS TO HIKING TRAILS: 
- Joburg.co.za
- WhatToDoSA.co.za

Before heading out, a little preparation goes a long way. Pack a backpack with the essentials so you can enjoy your hike safely and comfortably — rather be overprepared than underprepared!

Things to take along:
  • Hand sanitiser or wipes (and face masks, just in case)
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Plenty of water
  • Snacks or food to keep your energy up
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (a light jacket is always a good idea)
  • Comfortable shoes with good grip
  • A basic first-aid kit
  • A knife or multi-tool
  • Navigation tools
  • And, of course, lots of energy and a sense of adventure!

Gauteng has so many hiking routes that there’s definitely one perfect for you. Check out our list of top local trails and get ready to explore the beautiful outdoors. Let us know in the comments if you’ve tried any of these hikes — or if you have a favourite route to recommend. 
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Healthy Holiday Meals: Balance, Flavour & Summer Fun

12/16/2025

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life ​

Healthy eating should never feel like torture — especially over the holidays. Summer is for relaxing, reconnecting with family, and enjoying food that tastes amazing and makes you feel good. Think wholesome, flavour-packed braai side salads, juicy burgers with a homemade sauce full of the good stuff, easy holiday breakfast rusks, and refreshing strawberry desserts — from fridge tarts to ice lollies perfect for hot days.

DOWNLOAD SUMMER VIBE RECIPES HERE 

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s balance. Meals that leave you energised, satisfied, and ready to make the most of your holiday — not slumpy and sluggish. Simple swaps and thoughtful choices can go a long way without taking away the joy of festive eating.

This is where the 80/20 principle comes in — something we emphasise in our practice all year round. Aim to nourish your body with wholesome, nutritious foods about 80% of the time, and leave space for the 20% that’s just for enjoyment. Yes, have the ice cream. Enjoy the pizza. Savour the holiday treats — without guilt. When indulgences are enjoyed mindfully and in balance, they don’t undo the healthy habits you’ve built all year.

This summer is about ease, enjoyment, and feeling your best. Keep meals simple, colourful, and tasty, focus on connection over perfection, and give yourself permission to enjoy the season fully. Here’s to a festive holiday filled with good food, good company, and a healthy dose of balance. 
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Top Guide to Surviving Year-End Functions

11/8/2025

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Author: Jeannine Stokes-Waller

Registered Dietitian (SA). Dedicated to helping you live healthier — one simple, sustainable step at a time.

To survive year-end functions with starters, drinks, and desserts, focus on portion control, smart choices, and pre-event planning. Eat a light snack beforehand, scan the buffet before diving in, and prioritize balance over indulgence.

Here’s a more detailed guide to help you navigate the festive spread with grace and satisfaction:

Starter Survival Tips
• Eat before you go: Have a small, protein-rich snack (like yogurt or nuts) before the event to avoid arriving ravenous.
• Scan before you scoop: Take a walk around the starter table before choosing anything. This helps you make intentional choices rather than impulsive ones.
• Choose balance over excess:
  • Opt for vegetable-based starters like crudités, grilled veggies, or light soups.
  • Prioritize vegetables on your plate at the buffet – they add volume, colour, and nutrients without too many calories.
  • Limit deep-fried options or creamy dips unless you're sampling small amounts.
    • Use a small plate: It tricks your brain into feeling satisfied with less.
    • Watch the bread basket: It’s easy to fill up on bread before the main meal. Try to skip the bread option if offered — there’s plenty of other great food to come. If you indulge, go for whole grain or seeded options.
    • A smart choice: Choose two starters instead of a starter and a big main course. This way, there’s still room for a small dessert.

Smart Alcohol Choices
Celebrations often include a drink or two — and that’s okay! The key is making smarter choices that keep you feeling good during and after the event.
• Hydrate between drinks: Have one glass of water between each alcoholic drink. It keeps you hydrated and helps pace your intake. You can still keep it “bougie” with sparkling water, cucumber slices, or a squeeze of lemon.
• Avoid sugar-loaded mixers: Skip fizzy drinks, pre-mixed cocktails, or energy drink mixers. Choose soda water, tonic light, or fresh citrus juice instead.
• Stick to singles: Go for single measures rather than doubles to keep alcohol (and calories) in check.
• Choose wisely:
  • Dry wine, light beer, or spirits with sugar-free mixers are usually better options.
  • Avoid creamy or syrup-heavy cocktails like piña coladas or daiquiris — they’re often calorie bombs in disguise.

​Dessert Survival Tips
• Pick one indulgence: Choose the dessert that truly excites you and savour it slowly. Keep portions in check to avoid overindulgence.
• Split or sample: Share a dessert with a friend or take a small portion of a few to taste without overdoing it.
• Fruit first: If available, start with fresh fruit or fruit-based desserts like poached pears or berry compotes.
• Mind the sugar bombs: Cheesecakes, trifles, and frosted cakes are delicious but high in sugar and fat. Take a few bites and move on.
• Stay hydrated: Sometimes thirst masquerades as hunger, leading to overeating. Sip water between courses.

Bonus Tips
• Don’t hover near the food table: Socialize away from the buffet to avoid mindless nibbling.
• Practice the 80/20 rule: Eat healthily 80% of the time and allow yourself 20% indulgence.
• Eat slowly: Savour the food and give your brain time to register when you’re full.
• Bring a dish: If it’s a potluck, contribute a healthy starter or dessert so you know there’s at least one good option.
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Realistic Healthy Living: Keep the Balance Through the Year End Functions & Holidays

11/6/2025

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life 

Just a quick reminder — the all-or-nothing mindset this festive season is getting you nowhere fast.

Healthy living doesn't need to hit pause when the holidays begin — it simply shifts gears. It’s not about being perfect or saying no to every slice of cake that crosses your path. It’s about enjoying yourself yet still honouring the progress you’ve made this year.

The secret? A mindset shift.

You need to actually enjoy eating healthy and enjoy moving your body. How?
- Make your food tasty.
- Do activities that are fun.
- Surround yourself with people who make it all feel effortless.

No one can keep up a “healthy lifestyle” if it feels like permanent torture. You’ve come this far — by now, I hope you know there’s space for everything in realistic healthy living… including carrot cake for breakfast! (Try our delicious Holiday Breakfast Carrot Cake oats bake with a “cream cheese” topping — your morning treat just got a healthy glow-up.)

When the festive season rolls in with year-end functions, closing parties, and endless toasts, remember — it’s not about deprivation, it’s about mindfulness. You’ve worked hard on your health this year. Keep that in mind before diving into the buffet like it’s a competitive sport.
​
Don’t chase “perfect.”

The "all or nothing" approach doesn't work. Life happens — and it will keep happening. You can’t control every situation, but you can control your response.

- Holiday treats? Absolutely — enjoy them between balanced, nourishing meals.
- Holiday drinks? Sure — just add lots of water in between.
- Netflix marathons? Of course — just sprinkle in some movement: a beach walk, a swim, a hike, or even a dance-off in the living room.

The festive season is about rest, joy, and connection — but that doesn’t mean your health has to take the back seat. Make your healthy habits work with your holiday plans, not against them. Because yes — healthy, fun, and tasty absolutely belong in the same sentence… and the same way of living.
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Food for Health, Health for All

10/11/2025

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Author: Chantelle van der Merwe 

Registered Dietitian (SA) . PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK). All about Real nutrition for Real, every-day life  

Happy National Nutrition Week 2025!

​From 9–15 October, South Africans across the country come together to celebrate National Nutrition Week — a reminder that good health starts with good food.

This year’s theme, Food for Health, Health for All, shines a spotlight on a critical truth: everyone deserves access to safe, nutritious, and affordable meals — no matter their income or background.

Eating well isn’t only about personal wellness. It strengthens families, energises communities, and builds a healthier nation.
To make healthy eating easier for every household, we’re sharing a collection of budget-friendly recipes costing R40 or less per person — delicious, filling, and made with everyday ingredients.

You don’t need expensive products or fancy ingredients to nourish your body. Small changes add up — and we’re here to help you make them.

Download the recipes, try them at home, and be part of the movement toward better health for all. Click here to download.

Let’s make good nutrition a daily habit, not a luxury!
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    Chantelle vd Merwe RD (SA)

    Sustainable health made simple—backed by science, not trends. All about real nutrition for real life.

    Jeannine Stokes-Waller RD (SA)

    Dedicated to helping you live healthier — one simple, sustainable step at a time.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

"So happy and thankful to Chantelle to have had her be part of my journey, without her I would not have been as successful as I was." - Gayle , diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes 

"Chantelle is industrious in researching the answer, and applying it to suit my specific needs. Since working with her, I have noticed considerable improvements in my mental, physical, and emotional health relating to food. " - Sungeni , wanted to optimize her health with better nutrition 

"
Chantelle is amazing at understanding exactly where you are, and adjusting treatment accordingly. Her compassion and patience is amazing, and I genuinely feel that she partners with me in my nutrition and health" - Danielle , wanted help with weight loss 

"
The sympathy, empathy she works with is phenomenal. It just motivates you to talk to someone that understand your challenge. I am on my path to lose 30kg, it is surely not happening overnight. However, my journey with Chantelle is making every centimeter I lose absolutely worth to take on the next one to shake off." - Sonja, wanted help with weight loss post heart attack 

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