Oh I understand what you're saying. Exercising is a great way to lose all the bad calories. I'm sure it feels frustrating not to be able to do it as before. I miss swimming for example. A lot. I compensate with long walks, but indeed it's not the same.
Sugar can be addictive, I used to eat lots of chocolate as a teen, I can't explain how, probably because I was so studious and my brain needed all those calories lol. But now I prefer the dark one. I think we can change bad habits and slowly progress towards a healthier way. I don't believe in diets, I believe in lifestyle.
And water... Always gotta have my water lol💦😂