When I go out to eat I rarely have a dessert as I am too full from my main meal. If you find it hard to resist a sweet treat then try some of these strategies to help you when at a restaurant or coffee shop.

STICK WITH SORBET OR FROZEN YOGHURT

These are healthier options than ice-cream but still contain a high amount of sugar so go easy on portion size

PORTION CONTROL

If ice cream is the only option available just go for a single scoop

THE MINI OPTION

These days some restaurants offer mini size portions of different desserts so a good option if you can’t resist a sweet treat after your meal

KEEP IT FRUITY

A fruit salad is always a healthy option winner but failing that, anything that is fruit heavy is a good option

SHARING IS CARING

Share a dessert with your partner (if they are willing!) so you still get something sweet but half the calories than if you were to eat it on your own

HAVE IT AT HOME

If you struggle to say no to dessert then why not wait until you get home and have something that you have already made there. You will know what went into it and having a break between your meal and dessert will mean you are less likely to overindulge as you feel fuller.

COFFEE AND CAKE

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Try and keep coffee black, avoid syrups and creams and keep to a small size coffee rather than a large

THINK ABOUT THE MILK

Try skimmed or plant based milks in your tea or coffee

SUGAR FREE

If you have sugar in your tea or coffee start trying to cut down little by little until you get used to the taste of it being sugar free

A CUP OF TEA

Herbal teas with no sugar are the most waist friendly option

A SWEET TREAT

Avoid anything loaded with icing and try to opt for something with fruit or nuts.