Date: September 6, 2010 Time: 11:00pm Place: Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington D.C. Occasion: My 35th birthdayWhat: Sweet Indulgence
Almost three whole years have gone by and I have managed to stay sane without indulging in sugar. I’ve thrived, actually. Every New Year’s Eve I’ve asked myself if I can let go and indulge a little. So far I have not wanted to taste sugar again.
At some point on my birthday, however, I decided that I might try a little dessert if the occasion presented itself.
It did.
Jeff and I enjoyed a very …

This zucchini bread rocks. It comes from one of my favorite naturally sweet recipe books, The All-Natural, Sugar-Free Dessert Cookbook.
I had a giant zucchini that I used half of for my Mish Mash Veggie Stew (see below). The remainder I shredded for bread which I’ve been craving–I haven’t eaten zucchini bread in three years. The shame. It’s one of my favorites, too.
Like always, I fudged with the recipe (my version below) but it turned out perfect. It would be easy to substitute applesauce for the eggs to make this vegan. …

I have no idea how many of you are soda drinkers, but even if you don’t touch the stuff, we all know people who do. Here’s an interesting topic for discussion:
Researchers discover soda beverages have higher than expected amounts of fructose. The typical range of fructose in high fructose corn syrups is approximately 45%-55%. However, researchers recently found as much as 65% fructose in sodas, including Coke and Pepsi.
Gross.
What’s the problem and who cares? Too much fructose is linked to serious health issues, including metabolic disorders. Marion Nestle of Food …

I love dried cranberries. I mean, I really LOVE dried cranberries. When I first gave up sugar in January 2008, it broke my heart that most brands of dried cranberries were covered in white sugar. I was ecstatic when I recently had the opportunity to review a package of dried cranberries, compliments of Eden Organic. Not only did they send cranberries, but I was “accidentally” sent dried cherries, too, as well as recipes, nutritional info, and their 2010/2011 catalog. I dove into each: cranberries, cherries (so tart, oh my!), …

Dear Readers,
I apologize for my absence lately. It has been a difficult decision, but I have decided to freeze my blog in order to pursue some other interests. I am still passionate about living a sugar-free life, and had no idea that a New Year’s Resolution would last this long.
As an overview, especially if you are new to the site, I quit sugar in order to see if it could be done and what it would be like. I was seriously addicted to sugar before I quit cold turkey.
I …

Well, dang.
I’m putting off school a little while longer, and in the meantime, I’m learning way too much about sugar to not keep posting and sharing.
While I froze my blog for a few months in an effort to take some time off writing about sugar, I found out that school will come later rather than sooner, and I never did stop writing about sugar. I just didn’t post.
Not only is there a lot going on in the world of sugar, but I keep getting emails and feedback from people …

A regular-sized mango has about 25 grams of sugar. That is why I love them.
My favorite fruit changes all the time. Usually it’s whatever I happen to be eating at the moment. I love the fact that since I gave up sugar, a piece of fruit can satisfy my sweet tooth. This is particularly true with mangoes.
Trader Joes has a variety in stock right now called the Champagne Mango. It is smallish and the best type of mango I’ve ever tasted. I’m writing about mangoes for two reasons. One is …

Need some help determining the best snack bar for you? I think Lara Bars are by far the best choice, because of the organic, natural, few ingredients. In a pinch, a Lara bar quells my hunger, and I feel good about what I’m eating. Loved Fooducate’s breakdown of the Lara bar versus a Kellogg’s bar.
I also just found Enlightened Cooking, a cooking blog that has an entire article dedicated to making your own Larabars. Check it out!
I’ve been so busy with life and projects that I have not been able …

My mouth is saturated with the aftertaste of cinnamon, honey and molasses. I am still savoring little bits of sticky cranberries and raisins in my molars. The cookie I just baked is amazing. It is so simple and perfect. Thanks to Jamison Studio for this delicious oatmeal cookie recipe.
Rule #58 in Michael Pollan’s book, Food Rules says, “Do all your eating at a table.” I am breaking that rule right now as I type this post with a plate of hot cookies to my left. I pray I have the …