You’ve likely heard of Dry January, where a commitment to not drinking alcohol during the first month of the year is made. 

You may be aware of Stoptober, a campaign that runs throughout October to get people to give up smoking. 

But have you come across Dechox before? 

Well, it’s a charitable endeavour traditionally throughout March where people pledge to give up chocolate for the month, all in the name of their chosen good cause. 

It’s thought to have originally been started by the British Heart Foundation. The ‘challenge’ to give up cocoa-based sugary treats could be a lot harder than people think. 

So, with that in mind, here are five tips that might help you. 

1. Find your why: Identify a strong personal reason for giving up chocolate, whether it’s health-related or for a charitable cause. A clear motivation can keep you focused and resilient against cravings. 
2. Discover alternatives: Explore healthy snacks that satisfy your sweet tooth without chocolate. Think fruit, nuts or yoghurt. These alternatives can curb cravings and offer nutritional benefits. 
3. Stay hydrated: Often, our bodies confuse thirst with hunger or cravings. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help reduce chocolate cravings and keep you hydrated. 
4. Get support: Share your challenge with friends or family. Having a support network can provide encouragement, tips and keep you accountable during challenging moments. 
5. Reward yourself: Set milestones and reward yourself for reaching them – but not with chocolate. Opt for non-food rewards like a movie night, a new book or a relaxing bath. Celebrating progress can boost your motivation to continue. 

Good luck if you’re taking on the challenge, and thanks for reading.