We are all told that to eat a healthy diet we need to cut down on sweets and sweet foods, however not all sweets are bad for you.

Mother nature has provided us with a whole range of sweet treats that are nutritious as well as satisfying the sweetest tooth.

Fruits are rich in a whole range of nutrients and are a great source of antioxidants to boost your immune system and protect against many diseases.

Here are some tips on how to add a little sweetness to your diet.

Fresh fruit is always best but you can try frozen, dried or tinned.

Berries are great sprinkled into yoghurt; raisins can be added to salads or try sliced apples in sandwiches.

Fruit juice and smoothies make delicious drinks.

Try stewed or baked fruit served with low fat crme fraiche for desert.

Add chopped fruit to breakfast cereals.

Try different combinations of exotic fruit in a fresh fruit salad.

For more information and advice about healthy living, contact the National Heart Research Fund on 0113 297 6205 or email lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk.