Health gem

If you do one thing this week . . . space out your Christmas courses

Christmas dinner is a belly-busting affair and by late afternoon on Saturday, belts around the country will be loosened a notch or two.

Of course, the annual blowout is part of the festivity, and no one wants to be a Scrooge even with the calories.

But a bit of planning could actually prolong the enjoyment and possibly even save a few bob while also lessening the impact on your digestive system.

The trick is to spread out the three courses over the day.

Save the full Irish sausage-rasher-and- egg spectacular for later in the holidays when you are sick of turkey sandwiches, and instead have the Christmas meal starter as a late breakfast on the 25th as you open the presents.

The turkey, ham and all the trimmings can be the main event in the afternoon, and the desserts and sweets can be the treats that go with the evening movie.

And whatever your strategy, make sure you savour every bite and enjoy the company. Happy Christmas!