5 Surprising Habits That Can Help You Cut Back on Sugar

You know the phrase "everything in moderation"? That applies to sugar as well. Completely kicking it out of your life frequently leads to failure; however, the context in which you're eating it matters, says Ashley Gearhardt, PhD, associate professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, who also helped develop the Yale Food Addiction Scale, a test that pinpoints whether you exhibit addictive eating behavior. People frequently want high-sugar foods (like cookies or ice cream) when they're lonely or sad, at night and alone. However, take a step back: "Those are not the times to have a moderate scoop of ice cream," she says, as it can spiral into a binge. Instead, introduce treat foods during positive times when it's easier to moderate your intake, like after you've had a full meal in the company of loved ones.