The brain has a special area (orbitofrontal cortex) that restrains harmful behaviors — especially those based on memories of past experiences. That includes harmful eating behaviors.

Like all parts of the brain, the orbitofrontal cortex must be exercised to function efficiently. That is, you must use this part of your brain to say “no” to harmful behaviors.

The more this brain area develops, the easier it is to resist these behaviors.

People note that when they stop eating and drinking sweetened foods and drinks, over time they no longer crave them.

And when they try eating them later, they often can’t stand the intense sweetness. The more sweets we eat the greater volume we must ingest just to get the same pleasures. This is because the brain turns down the reactivity of the sweetness receptors.

The bottom line is that you must make yourself adopt healthy eating choices and then stick to them.