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Then again, what about a quick visit to the 7-Eleven? Now, these are palaces of the "snack", so much so that they really should be called "snackarieas" (my own word). Look at all that choice - lots of crunchy, crispy, snacky things.

But maybe a bowl of noodles would go down well, especially with the right balance of condiments. Maybe you like just that bit more sugar to balance the dried chilli.

In truth, a plate of fried rice is only a large snack, especially fried rice with crocodile, which is your favourite. (Well, I have a good imagination.) Or what about pad thai? You know you have that weakness for the ground peanuts.

Come to think of it, it is getting close to lunchtime, sort of. How about tom yum with rice and some veggies as extra?

Hold it, we were only talking about a snack! Educate your stomach - stick with the piece of fruit. Your wallet, your waistline and your health would prefer it. Oh yes, and mother was right.

The writer is the director of Mentor International. Visit www.Mentor.ac.

By John Kelly

Special to The Nation