We all get to a point over Christmas where we cram the final chocolate caramel in our mouths and vow that that will be the last grain of sugar that will ever pass our lips. Ooooh, warm mince pies? Eh, yes please.

Resolving to embrace a healthy, sugar-free diet is as standard a December resolution as resolving to be the best possible person you can be in January, but it’s not a simple task.

It takes dedication and perseverance, but it might be exactly what you and your body are looking for!

If you’re serious about trying a sugar-free diet in the new year, then here are some handy tips to get you started on this life-changing path.

1.  Remember it’s not going to be easy.

Like any big change in your life, it takes some getting used to so don’t expect to embrace the sugar-free life with open arms in your first week!

2. Do NOT go from eating sugar every day to banning it from your life entirely.

 This is a recipe for disaster, so be sure to gradually reduce your sugar intake day-by day by no longer taking sugar in your tea or coffee, for example.

3. Do NOT replace sugar with sugar substitutes and sweeteners

You’re only going to have to start weaning yourself off those too, so don’t put yourself through it!

4. Familiarise yourself with labels.

You will be shocked by the sheer amount of sugar in the food we eat, so things that you may have deemed healthy in the past will need to be left on the shelf from now on!

5. Include as much protein in your diet as possible.

The protein you obtain from eggs, fish and nuts is extremely satisfying, so filling up on these will reduce your chances of being hit with a sugar craving.

If you truly want to cut down on your sugar intake or exclude it from your diet completely, it’s important to educate yourself on sugary foods, from fruit to fudge cake, be realistic with your goals and remember that a sugar-free life is possible!

And one more thing; if you slip one day and eat an entire chocolate cake, so what? Tomorrow’s a new day!