JACELYN Tay, artiste, author and entrepreneur rolled into one, loves chocolates all year except during Christmas.

"I love dark chocolates, especially those with lots of nuts," confesses Tay in an interview at The Health Club which she founded.

"But during Christmas, there are so many other things to eat, such as log cakes and turkey. I'd rather save my calories for those!"

Though Christmas is a time when many throw their diet plans out of the window, Tay, who has written two books on health and beauty, says she's hardly one to eat like a glutton during the festive season.

"In fact, the best Christmas party I've attended was a few years back, when my friends and I feasted on sushi. Fortunately for me too, I don't have a sweet tooth, so I know when to stop when I am indulging in cakes and cookies. I also tend to only go for cakes that are beautifully decorated - so looks do count when it comes to what I put in my mouth.

"I gain at most 1kg during the festive feasting," says the svelte star, who weighs a mere 50kg for her 1.71m frame.

Apart from the food, Tay says she gets excited during this time of the year because it gives her a legitimate reason to shop till she drops.

The self-professed shopaholic lets on: "My spending for Christmas gifts can reach five figures...because I have to buy gifts for many people, including family and friends, colleagues, and business partners.

"Also, I'm the kind who takes great pains to buy presents that I know the recipients will appreciate."

Tay, who became a Christian two years ago, says it was only then that she realised the significance of Christmas.

"I've found a meaning to my life since I became a Christian. To me, Christmas is a time to share your joy with others," says Tay.

That's why she does not mind at all that she has to work till late at The Health Club on Christmas Eve this year.

"Many women come to us for last-minute beauty treatments before they head for their parties. It's a joy for me to see my customers leave the club happy and confident."

As for her Christmas wish, she says, after pausing to think for a few seconds: "Actually...I have all the material things that I want. There is nothing else I wish for, except - this may sound clichéd - for peace in everybody's hearts."