When you’re trying your best to keep on top of that diet, don’t let the sugar hit take control of your fortunes. While we all know snacking can help curb those hunger pangs, munching on the wrong sweet treat can turn your little indulgence into a weight loss barrier. So we asked our lovely readers, and did a quick Q&A around the office to bring some quick substitutes that won’t wreak havoc on the scales:

@Herdotie keep seedless grapes in the freezer - they're like little ice pops — Melanie Smith (@smith_sept) January 28, 2015

@Herdotie Dates!! — Kayberry Daquiri (@Kayleiigh_) January 27, 2015

@Herdotie have some sugar free jelly or frozen grapes — Michelle Courtney (@michellecourt84) January 27, 2015

Fancy something crunchy or do you munch biscuits at your desk out of habit? Her.ie’s Mary swears by raw carrot sticks: “They’re amazing. I could eat them all day” Dip them in a fat-free hummus for added flavour, or chop up peppers and celery to add some different flavours to your lunchbox. For those who can’t completely abstain from that taste of chocolate, there were tips from fellow readers who have their cake (slice) and eat it too:

@Herdotie I have a small piece of chocolate or cake to 100cals. I have tried cold turkey and substitutes! Does not work! — Emma Cashman (@madaemz) January 28, 2015

@Herdotie I allow myself a freddo bar which is only 90cals as opposed to most large bars which are triple the amount. — sivous playful (@avrilburke) January 28, 2015

@Herdotie oh and eat it with a LARGE mug of tea/coffee it makes you more satisfied. Alternative cadburys highlights 40 cals. — sivous playful (@avrilburke) January 28, 2015

@Herdotie After my dinner I have two squares of chocolate with a cup of tea and I'm satisfied once I've tasted the sweetness. — Helen Cooney (@SweetCooney) January 28, 2015

Her.ie Editor Michelle is a big fan of popcorn – especially for nights when you’re sitting in: “Making a bag of warm popcorn is a good alternative to munching on chocolate when you’re watching some TV.” While Marie says strawberries are her way of satisfying a sweet tooth: “I don’t tend to get a sweet craving that often, but strawberries are great when you’re just looking for something small every now and again”. And for those who don’t want to cave in just yet? Why not take a leaf out of these readers’ books?

@Herdotie keeping a food journal, to remind me of how far I have come. It works most of the time or eating a banana or fun sized bar. — Jennifer D. (@JenniferRuthDoy) January 28, 2015

@avrilburke @JenniferRuthDoy @Herdotie you gals tried @MyFitnessPal — Paul Doran (@aceofwaste) January 28, 2015

Studies have also proven that a 20 minute walk in fresh air can be just what the doctor ordered to deal with food cravings. The brain will switch its focus from your tummy to your training and if you’re still hungry after 20 minutes, a banana or apple should help keep you fuller for longer. For something sweet, try some blueberries in natural yoghurt. And if all else fails? Why not take this solid piece of advice?

@Herdotie Forget to put any goodies in the goodie press #raaaagh #nooooo — Annie West (@anniewestdotcom) January 28, 2015