Question: Why Do People Gain Weight When They Quit Smoking?
Whenever I quit smoking, I seem to gain weight even though I'm not eating any more than usual. Why does this happen?
Answer: Most people experience a small amount of weight gain when they quit smoking. This is due to metabolic changes our bodies go through when we quit. A gain of 5 to 10 pounds is normal.
Nicotine affects our bodies in a variety of ways, one of which is to elevate metabolism, so when we quit smoking, metabolism slows and a slight gain is usually the result. If the scales go higher than a 10 pound gain though, chances are your eating habits have changed.
Combat excessive weight gain by following these tips:
Weight can always be lost, but lungs cannot!
More reading:
Minimizing Weight Gain when You Quit Smoking.
Nicotine affects our bodies in a variety of ways, one of which is to elevate metabolism, so when we quit smoking, metabolism slows and a slight gain is usually the result. If the scales go higher than a 10 pound gain though, chances are your eating habits have changed.
Combat excessive weight gain by following these tips:
- Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Give your body the fuel it needs by eating plenty of the right foods. Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables; leans meats; low-fat dairy products and whole grains are important. Avoid the empty calories in junk foods. They will sap your energy and put on the pounds. - Drink Water
Not only is it a great craving-buster, water will help to flush residual toxins from cigarettes out of your body more quickly. Metabolism slows when the body is dehydrated, so drinking water will offset weight gain by giving your metabolism a boost. Good hydration also helps you feel better in general, which will make a difference in how you weather nicotine withdrawal symptoms. - Exercise Daily
Pick a form of movement that appeals to you and do it every day. Walking is a great low-impact cardiovascular choice, especially for those who haven't been doing much exercise. Start out with a 15 minute walk, and increase the frequency and amount of time as you are able. - Get More Rest
Most of us don't get enough rest and it can adversely affect weight loss efforts. Make sure you get enough sleep and take power naps now and then if you can do it.
Weight can always be lost, but lungs cannot!
More reading:
Minimizing Weight Gain when You Quit Smoking.
