A busy postbag this month, so let’s get to it!

How many calories in parsnips?
There are only 70 calories per serving of boiled parsnips. If you would rather roast the parsnips, cut them up thickly and use a light coating of olive oil, then soak on absorbent kitchen towels to reduce the fat content.

How many calories in a jacket potato?
In an average sized jacket there are 125 calories, but that’s before you’ve put anything on it! Go for light margarine instead of butter, baked beans, chilli, tuna, cottage cheese, or reduced fat cheese or coleslaw.

How many calories in deer meat?
In roast venison there are 165 calories per serving. As with all meats, trim off excess fat, and drain on kitchen towel before serving with lots of vegetables!

How many calories in a banana?
Bananas are very good choice of snack with around 100 calories each. They do have a slightly higher fat content than some other fruits.

How many calories in raisins?
Raisins have quite a lot of calories with 247 per 100g, although they are a healthier choice of snack than crisps or chocolate.

How many calories in strawberries?
Strawberries are an excellent choice for a snack, especially at this time of year when they are cheaper. They only have 30 calories per serving and are very versatile, with low fat yoghurt, low fat ice cream etc as a dessert.