Sugar Cravings | Excess sugar consumption leads to weight gain mainly because it turns fatty acids into triglycerides — which eventually convert to fat.

Sugar also leads to an increase in your body’s insulin levels and causes fluctuations in the hunger hormones known as leptin and ghrelin — which are responsible for controlling your appetite.

Unfortunately, because sugar has an adverse effect on your body’s hormones, it can be difficult to kick sugar out of your diet for good — especially if you feel as if you’ve become addicted to sugar and crave desserts and other junk foods. Weight-loss surgery patients are also usually advised by their surgeons and nutritionists not to consume excess sugar, or to consume small amounts of sugar in moderation.

If you’re ready to lose weight and become healthier, follow these five tips to stop your sugar cravings for good in a safe and natural manner.

1. Prepare your own homemade salad dressings

Most commercial salad dressings sold at your local grocery store contain sugar, additives, and an excessive amount of calories per serving that could hinder, rather than help, your weight-loss progress. Even dressings labeled as “fat-free” and “low-fat” substitute healthier ingredients with those that are less nutritious. Make your own healthy salad dressings at home using olive oil and your favorite seasonings.

2. Consume whole fruit instead of fruit-flavored snacks

Stop eating fruit-flavored snacks and packaged fruit that contain additives, and start eating more fresh, whole fruits. Many fruit snacks, juices, and packaged fruits contain sugar and other additives meant to enhance the flavor, but fresh, whole fruits are just as flavorful and far healthier. Grab a banana or apple to eat on the go instead of grabbing a pack of dried fruit sprinkled with sugar or fruit-flavored desserts.