Quit Smoking, Gain Weight?
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011Want to stop smoking? But afraid if you do, you’ll gain weight?
Many people list this is their No. 1 reason for not quitting – they’re afraid they’ll gain weight. So is there any real reason to worry?
Turns out, there is. Since cigarette smoking does burn up to 200 extra calories a day, it’s a legitimate concern. But quitting smoking doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose your figure.
To still keep off the 200 extra calories per day that nicotine burns, try these tricks:
- Explore using a nicotine-replacement product such as gum or a patch. These will help you reduce cravings while you’re kicking the habit.
- Replace your smoke break with an exercise break – maybe a short stroll around your workplace in the morning, during your breaks, or after work.
- Avoid replacing cigarettes with calorie-laden munchies. If the craving is severe, try plain carrot sticks or celery sticks (which are still better than cigarettes), but ultimately you don’t want to increase your daily calories.
- Try keeping a journal. You may find that journaling about your struggles and cravings may help. Many find writing to be a healthy emotional outlet.
- Give up a food item that’s 200 calories a day to make up for the loss. Not that you want to give up even more, but pick something small and negligible (and already bad for you), like that extra pat of butter on your toast, that lathering of cream cheese on your bagel, or the cheese on your sandwich. Giving up any of these extra calories will contribute toward your better health anyway — which you’ve already started by quitting smoking.
- Always remind yourself of the ultimate goal – to have a healthy body and lungs. Soon you’ll be nicotine-free and healthier than ever.
Visit Lifescript.com to read more about “quit smoking, gain weight?” You can also visit Lifescript’s new smoking cessation health center for numerous other articles and tips to help you quit.
The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).