Food is hugely important to people from my part of the world [Israel]. I lost 15kg 10 years ago and I’m still very conscious of healthy eating.
Coffee: I have to start the day with a coffee. I have cappuccino and a macchiato later. I’m an addict.
Sandwiches: It’s hard to beat a really good tuna sandwich.
Olive oil: I eat lots of salads — good olive oil and balsamic vinegar are really important
Tropical fruit: I have tropical fruit every evening. I love papaya, passion fruit and custard apple. I have a sweet tooth and this kind of takes the place of dessert.
Chicken: This is our most regular form of protein. You can roast it, have it in stews and sauces, and the white meat is very healthy.
Dietician Joan Wides writes:
Coffee contains health-protective anti-oxidants and the caffeine can improve alertness and concentration and reduce fatigue. Most people can enjoy about four cups of brewed coffee daily without any risk to their health.
Make sandwiches even more nutritious by using rye, granary, multigrain or pumpernickel bread, adding salad vegetables, and using hummus or other pulse purees instead of spread to keep sandwiches moist.
Olive oil is a healthy source of mono-unsaturated fats, as are canola (rapeseed) and groundnut oils. Nonetheless, these oils are all high in calories and should be used sparingly.
Using the less common sweet fruits can make the idea of fruit-based desserts more appealing.
Amir could also try Sharon fruits, mangoes and pomegranates, all of which are rich in Vitamin C and anti-oxidants.
Amir Chen is managing director of the Apostrophe cafe chain, with 12 branches around London and the South East. www.apostropheuk.com
