After a food and booze-filled December, you might have been tempted to embark on a strict diet this January. Banishing carbs, sweet treats, alcohol, and other foods from your cupboards may have seemed the best idea. However, it can be hard to follow a diet at the best of times, even more so when it’s cold and dark outside. And your mood might not be particularly upbeat. Your sweet tooth might just get in the way of any new year weight loss endeavors. Some simple hacks could help to outsmart that pesky sweet tooth helping you to say no to the pastries, chocolates, cakes, and desserts that might come your way.

1. Aim for 90 seconds of distraction

If you can’t stop thinking about a particular sugary snack or find that you can’t concentrate on work until you get your sugar fix, then Dr. Daniel Glazer, Clinical Psychologist, and co-founder of US Therapy Rooms suggest that just 60 to 90 seconds of a distraction can make a difference. He says: ‘Things like going for a brief walk, calling a friend, listening to upbeat music, pretty much any activity that gives us a ‘break’ from staring down a tempting sweet treat can help diffuse the intensity of a craving. It kind of resets our brains and bodies momentarily.’

2. Chew cinnamon gum

Next time a craving kicks in that you’re trying to fight, try chewing cinnamon-flavored gum, which Dr. Glazer says is particularly effective due to its distinct taste. He says: ‘Other flavors can also be used for managing sweet cravings. Gum with just cinnamon or combined with other flavors like mint or wintergreen can work well. The key is that the flavor should be enjoyable and provide a sensory distraction, which helps satisfy the craving without actual sugar intake.’

3. Drink tart