I have heard many opinions about refined sugars. I try to stay away from such sugars and I am personally terrified of artificial sweeteners. I prefer organic sugars which are brown in color. This article provides some good evidence that refined sugars are not major toxins ready to kill us. Refined sugars are in soooo much or what we eat, and the amount of sugars in certain things such as soda will shock you (just google ("demonstration measuring cup of sugar in soda"). The basic rule for all things is to use everything in moderation. Of course too much of one thing is bad. But I can't help but think of the times when I would literally craze for something sweet.... to the point when I would feel anxious and slightly crazed.