Banana Site

Rather than reach for a chocolate bar for your mid- afternoon snack, try this natural smoothie for an energy boost.

You will boost your energy in a natural way and satisfy your hunger. It is also great prior to exercise or to build some muscle mass.

Ingredients:

1 mango
medium pineapple
1 banana
2 dates
3 tablespoons plain yoghurt (live preferably)
1 teaspoon desiccated coconut
teaspoon manuka honey (organic is best)
A handful of ice

Method:

1. Peel the mango and cut off the flesh around the stone.

2. Peel the pineapple and cut into pieces.

3. Juice the mango and pineapple together.

4. Remove the stones from the dates.

5. Put the combined juice into a blender and add all the rest of the ingredients, including the dates.

6. Whiz the mixture together to create a smooth blend.

7. Pour into glasses and enjoy.

Serves 1 to 2

This is an energy packed breakfast that is easy to prepare. It is a slow-release energy drink that will keep you going all morning with a refreshing zingy taste to get you active.

Ingredients:

mango
1 banana
1 large orange
30ml (2 tablespoons) wheat bran
10-15ml (2-3 teaspoon honey to taste)
15ml (1 tablespoon) sesame seeds

Method:

1. Use a small, sharp knife to skin the mango and slice the flesh off the stone.
2. Peel the banana and break it into pieces.
3. Place the mango and banana pieces into a food processor or blender.
4. Squeeze the juice from the orange and add to the mixture.
5. Add the bran, honey and sesame seeds.
6. Whizz until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
7. Pour into glasses and serve.

Makes 2 glasses

This drink is simple to make and oh so filling!

Ingredients:

1 banana
One generous handful of strawberries, raspberries or other soft berries
1 glass of low fat cold milk or soya milk

Method:

1. Peel the banana and break into chunks.
2. Put all the ingredients in a blender or food processor.
3. Blend, being careful not to blend for too long as the smoothie can become too thick.
4. Pour into a glass and serve.