The January 2008 Topic of the Month focuses on natural ways to help beat the winter blues. Check out the article to find out how and why bananas can help and then if you're feeling inspired try out the recipes below. Bananas can of course be used in all sorts of other ways too — chopped onto cereal, as a sandwich filling, in muffins and as an egg substitute when baking but these treats are quick and easy to prepare and super-healthy. They are also perfect for those with a dairy intolerance.

FROZEN BANANAS
Never throw away very ripe bananas as they can easily be frozen and made into delicious ice cream, shakes and smoothies. Peel them, break into chunks and store in an airtight container in the freezer until required. They will last for 2-3 weeks before beginning to brown.

BANANA ‘ICE CREAM’
Allow 1—1½ bananas per person
Nut butter, chopped dates or carob powder if required

Remove bananas from the freezer and allow to soften slightly before whizzing in a food processor or powerful blender with a little rice milk, almond milk or cream. Blend to a smooth consistency and serve immediately or pour into a mould and return to the freezer. For extra goodness stir in a teaspoon of nut butter, some chopped dates or some carob powder for a chocolaty taste after blending.

BANANA & CHOCOLATE LOLLIES
Well ripened bananas
Good quality organic chocolate
Chopped nuts if required

It’s difficult to be precise about quantities here as bananas vary greatly in size so you will need to experiment to find out what works best for you. Peel well-ripened bananas and slice into 3cm chunks and skewer with a cocktail stick. Place in a single layer in a freezer box and freeze until firm. Remove from the freezer and dip into some melted chocolate, followed by chopped nuts if required. The chocolate will harden immediately on contact with the frozen banana. Return lollies to the freezer and remove individually to serve as required.