If you believe you eat too much sugar, why not try cutting back rather than abstaining 100 percent? Forcing yourself to eat no sugar at all for any length of time increases the likelihood of binging on it at some point. It’s important for everyone to find a balance within their diet and practice moderation. The “all-or-nothing” approach when it comes to food often fails and sets dieters up for a harmful yo-yo diet cycle.

Here are a few of my favorite “go-to” sweet treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings the next time they start to pang:

Yogurt Parfait

A simple yogurt parfait always does it for me! Simply take a cup or so of plain, Greek yogurt, add some fresh or frozen fruit, and top with a handful of granola, crushed graham crackers or nuts for a quick, healthy and delicious treat.

Fresh Fruit

When craving chocolate or cookies, why not reach for an apple or orange instead? You may be surprised with how satisfied you feel after. The natural sugars and fiber in whole fruits will provide the sweetness you are craving without the blood sugar spike, keeping energy and moods lifted without the sugar crash you get from candy and cookies.

Frozen Chocolate Banana

Bananas are one of my favorite fruits, and as added nutritional bonus they are a great source of vitamins C and B6, and jam packed with potassium and fiber. For a delectable treat, take half a banana, melt some dark chocolate, roll the banana in chocolate and top with chopped almonds. Put into the freezer and in just a short time you a delicious, tasty and sweet treat.

Fruit and Cottage Cheese

Fruit and cottage cheese is a delicious, yet extremely satisfying treat. This treat has everything you need to feel satisfied from sweetness, to fiber, to high protein.

Frozen Grapes and Blueberries

Pop some grapes or blueberries in the freezer for a few hours and then enjoy a slightly sweet treat packed with antioxidants and other nutrients. They are especially great on hot, summer days!

Hot Chocolate

Yes, this can be a healthy drink. Simply make skim or 2% milk your base, and add some melted dark chocolate for real healthy, satisfying winter treat. To spice it up a bit, add a sprinkle or two of cinnamon for a savory touch or cayenne pepper if you prefer a sweet-spicy combination! To ensure you don’t over do it, be sure to hold the whip cream and marshmallows.

Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate

A small serving of a healthy mix of nuts like almonds and pistachios with a few nice chewy pieces of dried fruit like unsweetened raisins or tart cherries, and some dark chocolate pieces makes a great snack mix with good nutritional value too.

Need help getting started with healthy snack options? Browse our weekly meal plan menus for more inspiration! For healthy options to satisfy your sweet tooth, we recommend Aunt Tillie's Banana Muffin. It is a Sutton family favorite!