Cravings are intense, urgent, or abnormal desire or longing.

However, just because you're having a craving or want something sweet doesn't mean you have to eat sugar - or even pop a sugar replacement, such as a piece of fruit - on impulse.

Buy yourself some time.

Drink a glass of water, take five deep breaths, or go for a short walk. If you are truly hungry, it's okay to reach for a snack.

• If you notice a sugar craving at 3 p.m. daily without fail, add a protein-filled snack at this time to power through the day.
• Identify your favourite foods
• Pick two go-to breakfasts, 2-3 lunches, and 2-4 dinners and have those ingredients on hand so you can stay consistent.
• Spice things up with spices that don't contain added sugar, such as cinnamon and red pepper.

While it helps to have enjoyable staples to turn to, getting curious in the kitchen can provide a fun outlet and instill healthy eating habits.

Explore recipes, eat some new vegetables and fruits you’ve never tried before or combine different ingredients to create new dishes. By switching up what you’re eating from day to day, you might find a new delicious dish that gets you excited about dinner.

• While most people will support your get-healthy mission, there will be a few who try to derail your efforts.
• You should definitely tell your friends, family, coworkers and significant other what you're trying to accomplish, and actively ask them for their encouragement and cooperation.

Craving something sweet? Try:

• Sliced apples with nut butter
• Fresh berries with a handful of nuts
• Whipped ricotta with roasted cherries
• Baked cinnamon apples
• Herbal tea that has a sweet note such as vanilla

Craving something salty? Try:

• Guacamole and cucumber “chips”
• Veggies or crackers (without added sugars or refined flour) and hummus
• Biltong (an air-dried beef jerky) or turkey or salmon jerky
• A handful of nuts or seeds
• Dishes using eggs!