After having that fulfilling meal at midday, many people later eat another heavy meal at home at dinnertime. This may be traditional in a Jamaican and Caribbean context but it isn't always good practice diet-wise. Certainly, it isn't a good idea for those watching their weight to consume two rice and peas meals daily. For others, that habit will put them in the weight watchers category pretty soon.

So, what's for lunch? If you plan on having a light dinner or none at all, the good ole rice and peas meal is not a bad idea for lunch. It has all the food groups, assuming vegetables are included, it is substantial, and should be nutritious. So missing dinner, if you have the discipline, doesn't leave you lacking. Some people try another tactic: they have a traditional lunch some days and substitute other light foods on others.

For the vegetarians, Grace Foods has just introduced a new line Earth Chef, a range of convenient ready-to-prepare veggie meals. The first three that are on the market are veggie curried mutton, veggie stewed beef and veggie mince that comes both flavoured and unflavoured. "They are great tasting substitutes for meat," says Anthony Lawrence global brand manager at Grace Foods. Patty's, sandwiches, sausages and burgers also work for lunch. Add vegetables or cheese to give the meal more substance to keep you until dinner time. You may also want some fruits or a small cup of soup as lunch starters.

Whatever you decide, the best advice is keep it balanced. Try not to eat too many heavy meals per day and you should be fine (no pun intended).