Quit Smoking and Keep off the Weight

So you want to quit smoking but you don't want to gain a bunch of weight in the process. That is probably the biggest fear among all people who want to quit smoking; that they'll gain a ton of weight and not be able to lose it.

They figure it is better to be a smoker and thin than to be a non-smoker and over-weight, so they decide to not quit. There are simple reasons why people gain weight when they quit smoking and in the following I will explain some of those reasons and how to avoid them.

First and foremost, nicotine is an appetite suppressant and a stimulant. Your metabolism increases slightly when you smoke. Once you quit, your metabolism decreases and your hunger increases.

When you get stressed, as a smoker, the first thing you do is light up. When you quit smoking and you get stressed, the first thing you do is head for the vending machine or fridge. Stress plays a huge role in whether you control your weight gain or not; so stay active and keep you mind busy.

To pacify these cravings, food is usually the substitute. High calorie, high sugar foods such as candy are most often the replacement as it's quick to get, quick to eat and quick to give you that little buzz.

However, the calories add up, the metabolism is slowed and, sadly, weight is gained. To keep from gaining weight when you've decided to quit is to counteract the behaviors that cause you to gain weight in the first place.

It's important to stay busy to keep your mind off your cravings. If that doesn't work you can try exercising or doing some kind of task that isn't stressful. If all else fails and you have to give in to those cravings, pick healthy food to snack on instead of the high fat stuff.

Have carrot sticks instead of potato chips or dried fruit instead of cookies. Low calorie/sugar free snacks have come a long way and, in some cases, are just as good as their junk food counterparts.

The best advice for someone who has decided to quit smoking is to start an exercise program as soon as you quit. Most smokers will gain some weight just because you will eat more because your appetite will increase plus food will taste better. Your metabolism will slow down, so that's why it's important to start exercising.

Something that is very helpful in the process of quitting smoking is to drink a lot of water to keep your hunger pangs under control. Nicotine is what addicts you to smoking, but it is the habit of smoking that continues to bug you after you quit. Stay busy and keep yourself occupied and start a good exercise program. Set your goal to quit and control your eating behaviors; this will ensure you the best results and a much healthier body.

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