Splaining Sugar

I found a really great article explaining how different sugars effect the body, how you become sugar dependent, and the difference between processed and unprocessed sugars.  Read it here.    (BTW, isn't this illustration fantastic?)

I found this article particularly interesting because I just had a discussion about sugar with a fellow sweet-tooth the other day.   I was explaining how I managed my longing for sweets by eating both fresh fruit and dried fruits (dried apricots and dates are always in my house for when I just got to have sweet).  

My friend looked at me and said "but you're still eating sugar, isn't sugar just sugar?"

But, as I explained to her, and this article explains as well, not all sugars are created equal.   Natural sugars found in there natural states don't have the negative effects on your health and weight that processed sugars do.  

BTW, here's a great "raw" berry tart for dessert for this time of year.   I make this all the time and everyone loves it.   Plus, it's so easy to make, and takes less then 15 minutes to put together.

First take an equal amount of pitted raw dates and raw pecans and process in a food processor with a couple of tablespoons of water until it's sticky and you can pat it into a pie plate.   Pat this "dough" into a pie plate then fill with whatever fresh berries are in season.  I've used various combinations of raspberries, blueberries, sliced strawberries and black-berries.

If you want to be decadent (and no longer "raw") serve with either fresh whipped cream or ice cream (just a small dollop or scoop!!).   

I swear that people love this dessert and haven't a clue they're eating healthy (or, at least mostly healthy if you use the whipped cream or ice cream).   I once brought this dessert to a party, and one guy ate practically the whole tart before anyone else was able to get any.