Don't want your boss to ask too many questions when you call in sick? Say you have gastro, the joke goes. After all, a detailed description of vomiting or diarrhoea is something no one wants to hear.

"Three-and-a-half million South Africans (about 6% of the population) suffer from diabetes and there are many more who are undiagnosed," cautions Dr Larry Distiller, founder and managing director of the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology in Johannesburg.

These days, grabbing a pack of sushi for lunch is almost as common as picking up a cheese and pickle sandwich. The Japanese dish can be bought from every major supermarket (where sales have risen a staggering 88% in the past two years).

Chocolate doesn't have to be your guilty secret. Tucking into a square or two of good quality dark chocolate every now and then does have its health benefits. But despite its healthy credentials, even dark chocolate can be high in fat and calories (a medium-sized bar can contain up to 250 calories), so watch your portion sizes to get the most from your healthy treat.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa welcomed the announcement that the health minister has signed legislation to make salt reduction in the food industry mandatory.