The last day of the work week is here and a weekend of fun stretches before us.
I’m pretty sure most of us have one or two parties to attend this weekend. Owambe has become the term for parties these days. It’s a Yoruba word loosely translated as “It is happening there” or “I was there”, and it is now a name for big weddings and birthday parties.
A typical Owambe has a large crowd of guests, lots of people dressed in aso-ebi, dancing, spraying of money, and of course lots to eat and drink.
It is usually difficult to eat a healthy meal when you see lots of food. Follow these tips to help you eat healthier at parties.
1. Eat more protein than carbs: Try to ignore the heaps of pounded yam and large spoons of rice. If you must take them, take little quantity. Instead, opt for foods with protein like moi-moi, eggs, fish, chicken and meat. If there are vegetables, salads and/or fruits available, go for that. You don’t necessarily have to heap your plate with these either. Eat in moderation.
2. Don’t leave home hungry: This applies not just for Owambe parties but for any social function where you know food will be served. With an empty stomach, its difficult to make wise decisions about the quantity of food you eat outside and you just might end up embarassing yourself.
3. Eat small portions: I deliberately eat very little at social functions. Not only is it healthier, but it helps you exercise more self control. Imagine that its time for you to dance with the celebrant or the couple and you can’t because your tummy is so full!
4. Survey party buffets before filling your plate. Don’t wait till you get to the middle of the line and you see something else you like ahead when your plate is already full. Choose your favorite foods and skip your least favorite. Include vegetables and fruits to keep your plate balanced.
5. Choose your drinks wisely. Avoid drinking too much sugary drinks or alcohol. Too much sugar affects your health badly and helps you pack on the weight. Also, what’s the point of getting drunk and not being able to properly enjoy your friend or relative’s party?
Do you have any more tips to add? How do you select your food when you go out for parties?
Have a fab weekend!
SL
