sugar craving

Hi, noelhig. I’m glad you are feeling better.
Sugar cravings are actually not so strange. First of all, you are surrounded by it, so the power of suggestion is already difficult. Second, most humans are “trained” to like sweet things from birth. Third, since simple sugar is the quickest source of energy, a tired body and brain are going to want it. Fourth, simple sugar going into the brain activates relaxation chemicals. All this makes your cravings very natural, with a touch of addiction – that most people have to some degree.
Getting past it may be a process. First, be sure you do not get too hungry – hopefully the meal plan layout in this program helps with that. Second, have other treats in your office that you like as well as candy, or at least nearly as well; budget them into your meal plan as one or some of your snacks (sometimes even just sipping on something comforting or energising can help). Third, try negative associations, even if you have to exaggerate – this will take a while, but it can be effective if you let your imagination go wild with stereotypes about the purported negative effects of candy beyond weight gain, and see if you can look at the candy at work not as edible, but as office equipment no different from an actual pencil. Fourth, your job may entail tasting candy, but beyond a taste, the rest can be shared with your co-workers. Finally, try keeping a toothbrush and toothpaste at work and brush your teeth right after tasting – this often curbs the desire for more.
Again, the process may take time. Even if you cut back a little at a time – each time you grab candy it is a little less than the previous time – eventually you can get to near-zero or even zero without “withdrawal” adding to the stress.