Not Too Naughty Nutty Banana Loaf

Being healthy and nutritious does not mean that we have to cut out cakes and treats, as this fruity recipe demonstrates.

Refined sugar, such as the white caster sugar you often find in baking, has had all of the goodness stripped out of it, leaving only the sweet taste. Choosing unrefined, dark muscovado sugar ensures that you retain the nutrients of the molasses, which include iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus.

Flaxseed oil or linseed oil is provides Omega-3 fats, a group of three polyunsaturated fats known as essential fatty acids. Essential, as the body is unable to manufacture some Omega-3 fats - particularly Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), so this must be obtained through the diet, and flaxseeds are a very rich source. Omega-3 fats keep the body healthy, specifically producing energy within our cells, assisting with the correct functioning of our immune systems, cardiovascular, inflamatory and nervous systems, and helping to provide the brain with the fats that it is composed of. In addition, the omega-3 fats in flaxseed oil are great for the skin, as skin cells are surrounded by a fatty membrane which helps lock in the moisture and keep out any harmful elements. Omega-3 fats are good fats that can assist with this healthy process.

It has been shown that flaxseed oil can be heated to high temperatures without losing its omega-3 benefits, which is another great reason to use this nutritious oil in baking.

It also provides antioxidant benefits and has even been linked to decreased insulin restistance. If you are trying to lose weight, and reduce blood pressure, then this type of fat is a great alternative to the saturated fats in butter.

Walnuts are another great source of omega-3 fats, and work perfectly in this recipe.

Choose ripe, or even slightly over-ripe bananas, for maximum flavour and easy blending.

Warning - this cake is particularly moorish. Avoid eating the whole cake in one go as this is likely to blow any health benefits!