Christmas is coming, the geese are getting fat, please put a kobo in the old man’s hat.

This nursery rhyme evokes nostalgic memories of Christmas. The excitement, abundance of food, snacks, drinks and, of course, gifts are some of the highlights of Christmas. You see, children are not the only ones who feel joyful about Christmas. Adults, no matter how hard they try to hide it, also take part in the festivities that are associated with this last month of the year. 

Over the years, certain gifts have been associated with this season; somehow, these gifts have become cliché. 

Another Christmas is here upon us. Year 2020 has been a totally different type of year. As such, be assured that you can also do things differently this year.  

So, as you shop for gifts to give families, acquaintances and people around think different. 

Consider making it a protein-rich season. Protein is widely regarded as an essential building block of life. Found in literally every cell of the body, protein is an important ingredient used to build, maintain and repair body tissues and muscles.

Here is a list of protein-inspired gifts that you can put on your shopping list this season:

Soy-centred Hamper 

Gift hampers are not new in Nigeria. Currently, these hampers are already on display in supermarkets, bulging with familiar content. The idea of gifting someone a hamper is completely valid but you can customize and make it soy-Centred. Soybeans are a great source of wholesome protein.

The contents of your soy-centred hamper will include soy products such as soymilk, soy powder, soy sauce, soy oil, soy cereals, and blocks of tofu. These soy products can easily be purchased off the shelves, assembled and presented in a fancy and colourful gift pack.

Eggs

Yes, you can also give eggs as Christmas gifts. This protein-rich food will not only be appreciated but also cherished by whomever you are giving it to. A crate or a small basket of eggs isn’t out of place this season, especially with the recent hike in the price of eggs. So, feel free to include eggs on your list of gift options this Christmas.

Turkey/Chicken

Chicken or turkey are the most popular go-to sources of protein during the festive season. Families always ensure that these tasty protein-rich animals are paired with their favourite choice of carbohydrate at Christmas. The gift of a live, smoked or even frozen chicken/turkey is sure to put a smile on someone’s face this season.

Seafood

Dried seafood such as fish (smoked, dried and even fish flakes), stockfish (dried cod) and crayfish are protein-rich foods you can serve as gifts this Yuletide season. You can also throw in some cans of sardine or tuna to sweeten the deal. One great thing about dried seafood is that it can easily be stored by those receiving them as gifts.

Protein Nuts

Protein-rich nuts include peanuts (groundnuts), cashew nuts, almonds, and pistachios. These nuts, which also doubles as snacks, equally make awesome gifts. Apart from being nutritious, these protein-rich nuts are readily available in bottles and sachets. They are also quite affordable. 

In this season of love and sharing, let’s do the unusual and ensure that our gifts are protein inspired.

Do have a protein-rich Christmas!

Eneh Veronica Ejembi is a digital content professional and public relations executive.