How to stop your sweet tooth from ruining your diet

Sometimes, the real enemy that's preventing you from losing weight isn't the lack of exercise but your cravings.

If you're addicted to sugar, here are five tips that can help.

1. Have a well-rounded diet

When we limit our meals to the point that we are only eating a plate of greens for the sake of "clean eating", our cravings for sweets can occur more often and end up ruining that healthy diet plan.

Make sure your plate consists of a good mix of fibre-rich carbs, protein and healthy fats. In other words, a satisfying meal can keep any sugar cravings at bay.

2. Spike your water with lemon juice

Make that glass of water more refreshing with lemon juice. The sharp-tasting citric acid in this wonder fruit cleanses the palate and helps to curb any sugar cravings you might have after a meal.

Lemon juice also prevents fluctuations in your blood sugar levels by slowing down the conversion of carbs to sugar.

3. Reach for fruits instead

Yes, fruits still contain sugar but they are a much healthier go-to as compared to a chocolate lava cake. Organic berries, grapes and apples are your next best option!

4. Incorporate natural extracts and spices into your food

Reduce the amount of sugar when you make baked goods. Instead, use spices like cinnamon as they add flavour with neccessary damage control.

5. Schedule your treats

Condition your body such that it only indulges in your favourite ice-cream once a week on a Friday night.

It takes some discipline, but scheduling your treats will eventually become a habit that'll help you control your sugar intake.

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