• Use a low fat milk or yoghurt as the base
   
• Use real fruit, instead of fruit juice
   
• Try to be restrained with sweeteners like honey, use 1 – 2 teaspoons rather than tablespoons
   
• Add a healthy boost by including some flax or chia seeds
   
• If you want to make your smoothie more filling try blending in some rolled oats or walnuts

The internet is a wonderful resource - so much information out there, including wonderful articles, recipes and thoughts on food.  Here are some of the recipes and resources I'm liking at the moment:

 

Steamed egg custards: I'm intrigued by this steamed egg custard from Mummy I Can Cook. Especially topped with a bit of soy sauce, some chopped green shallots, chilli and a dash of sesame oil. I plan to make this recipe very soon.

Marinating olives: A lovely way to spark up olives, by marinating in garlic, thyme and rosemary.  Perfect make-ahead finger food for a drinks or dinner party by Gourmande in the Kitchen.

Start losing weight: A great resource on the NHS website, about the steps to take when you want to lose weight.  Full of really practical advice. I particularly like the "Do Today" and "Do This Week" lists.

Pear Muffins: While we don't all have our own orchard, you can still make these delicious muffins from Tea and Cookies.  They're spiced up with ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg and sweetened with honey and pear puree, instead of sugar.  They'd make a delicious breakfast or snack.

Grilled haloumi and beetroot salad: What a cracking salad from Food and the Fabulous - grilled haloumi combined with greens and grated beetroot, then topped with toasted pumpkin seeds and a zesty lime dressing.