The Bible (in both testaments!) commands us to "eat, drink and be merry," but I think the wise individuals who thought up this pithy phrase meant it as a warning. To them there was more to life than endless imbibing and gluttony, though I can think of only one other thing.
The human race is divided into people who are shōshoku (少食, those who eat like a bird) and ōgui (大食い, those who eat like a horse). Both groups boast those who wolf down their food. These are people who gatsu-gatsu kuu (がつがつ食う, eat like pigs).
But what if you just want to eat eiyō no aru tabemono (栄養のある食べ物, nourishing food), here in Japan. Well, here are a few hints to help you get through a meal.