Jason, We don’t consider any foods “bad” foods or off limits; instead, we focus on foods that fit into our macros, are as nourishing as possible, and help us avoid eating a less healthy alternative (that’s where these sugar cookies come in). We try to opt for less processed, “real” foods whenever possible. Xanthan gum may work in place of the arrowroot here, but we haven’t tried it; we don’t use xanthan because it causes GI distress in a lot of people, unfortunately, us included. If you try this recipe using xanthan or something else, please let us know how it goes!