‘Friday Fish,’ a tasty wake up call to obese Kenyans

Pan-seared Honey Glazed Salmon served with Caramelized Onion Sauce and Saffron Rice photographed by Susan Wong 2012
Obesity in Kenya is nothing new, considering the latest research shows that a whopping 12% of the population falls under obese. Obviously this is simply a statistic, but the findings are definitely worth taking note and calls for some self-reflection in regards to your daily meal choices.

In another study published in Annals of Human Biology, researchers found that obesity was higher in Kenyan urban centers than in rural communities. Out of all the ethnic groups in Kenya, researchers concluded that the Maasai had the highest overall fat accumulation. Most interestingly, researchers concluded that Kenyans living in urban communities also had higher fat thicknesses in the abdomen area – no denying that pot belly now!

So, you want to lose some of that extra weight? How about increasing your fish intake? Fish is a great low fat alternative to the regular beef and goat in most Kenyan diets. Whether you’re watching your weight, preparing for the upcoming Lewa Marathon, or has been ordered by your doctor to eat more fish – it’s time to give salmon and tilapia a chance.



New ‘Friday Fish Delights’ at Thorn Tree Café

Even restaurants have started to offer more fish options on their menus. Chef Godfrey at Thorn Tree Café has many delightful fish-based creations that will be available during lunch throughout the week, and especially on ‘Friday Fish Delights’ set to launch in April.

Here are just a few healthy samples of what you can expect:

Smoked Salmon at Thorn Tree Cafe in Nairobi, Kenya photographed by Susan Wong 2012
Smoked Salmon with Horseradish, and a Cucumber, Apple and Celery Salad The Horseradish dip was not overpowering and the salad was divine. Fresh cubed apples, cucumber and celery – a salad full of crunch!

Tilapia Pili Pili at Thorn Tree Cafe in Nairobi, Kenya photographed by Susan Wong 2012
Tilapia Pili Pili with French Fries and Summer Slaw Tilapia, native to Africa, is known for being rich in Omega-3, which is vital for a healthy brain and preventing heart disease.

The Tilapia was firm and it’s white meat was neutral in taste, making it easier for most fish amateurs to enjoy.
The Pili Pili was not too spicy. The Summer Slaw of fresh peppers and onions was refreshing, crunchy and delicious.

Pan seared Salmon at Thorn Tree Cafe in Nairobi, Kenya photographed by Susan Wong 2012
Pan-seared Honey Glazed Salmon served with Caramelized Onion Sauce and Saffron Rice Whether it’s farm-raised or wild, salmon still remains one of the most popular healthy choices for parents and kids. Aside from simply being delicious, flaky and juicy when prepared properly; salmon is full of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy oils.

I love my salmon as a Canadian, and this version was incredibly moist and full of flavour! Honestly, one of the best salmon dishes I’ve sampled in a long time. Bravo!






Journal Source:
Christensen DL, Eis J, Hansen AW, Larsson MW, Mwaniki DL, Kilonzo B, Tetens I, Boit MK, Kaduka L, Borch-Johnsen K, Friis H. Obesity and regional fat distribution in Kenyan populations: impact of ethnicity and urbanization. Annals of Human Biology. 2008 Mar-Apr;35(2):232-49.

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