Now that the verdict is in about just how harmful white sugar and artificial sweeteners can be, those who have a sweet tooth might be in despair at the thought of having to give up dessert.
The good news is that there are many ways to enjoy dessert naturally once you learn how to prepare your own food and not rely on pre-packaged food from the supermarket.
Fruit
Ripe fruit is naturally sweet and is also packed with a lot of vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting antioxidants.
Applesauce is often used in baking as a healthy substitute for both sugar and butter, increasing moisture but decreasing fat content. Several varieties of apples are amongst the top 20 foods containing the most antioxidants. Granny Smiths are perfect for pies and Galas are a versatile apple that can be used in any recipe.
Bananas have a sweet starchiness to them that will keep you full for house. They can be eaten as is, with a sweet sauce like a little bit of chocolate, or even cooked with some butter and a splash of maple syrup.
Berries are another excellent fruit for all-natural desserts. They are also in the top 20 antioxidants list, including blueberries and strawberries. They can be eaten hot or cold and blend well into smoothies. They can also disguise the taste of healthy vegetables you can sneak into your smoothies, so the rest of the family ever has to know how good for them their ‘dessert’ is.
Fruit juice
Fruit juice has a similar sweetening effect and can be used in smoothies, shakes and desserts instead of added sugar. The main thing to watch out for is that the juice you are buying is not only 100% juice, but also the juice on the label. For example, cranberry juice is often high in apple juice, not cranberry at all.
Vegetables
Sweet vegetable like carrots and sweet potatoes can work well in many recipes. And why not try some zucchini bread?
Making your own natural desserts means you can have your cake and eat it to. Best of all, it also means that you have complete control over what you are eating. You know exactly what’s in the dessert you and your family are eating. This means a significant reduction in artificial colorings, flavorings, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, gluten-used for thickeners, and more. Being chemical free can only be a good thing.
Start looking up all natural, low carb and sugar free recipes, and you should soon find a range of delicious desserts you can enjoy any time you fancy a sweet treat.
