Are dried cranberries o.k. to eat or should these be regarded like raisins avoided or eaten rarely?

The food guide doesn't mention them. Regular cranberries are on the good list, however. If you try them, I'd definitely make sure they are unsweetened!

I've yet to find dried cranberries that are NOT sweetened.

o.k. I think I will avoid them.

I will look for some at the health food store tomorrow. Ruth, you are right, I don't think I have ever seen them unsweetened. I read a recipe today that called for them, but I don't know if they actually make unsweetened, or if it was somebody's hopeful modification of another recipe. I'm going to buy more Madagascar Red Vanilla tea (going to buy a BUNCH this time) and Lunberg Wehani rice, so I'll see if they know of an unsweetened variety.

I'm still soooooo sad that we cannot have dates. (I mean the food, not the ones with kissing)

Pebbles, I once ate a package of dates (in one sitting) and gained 6 pounds overnight.