Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day.
Remember H. Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal. But changing too much too quickly can increase the stress you feel as you try to quit smoking. Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day. Drink less caffeine; although you may think it will make you feel better, caffeine can worsen the jittery nervous feeling that may accompany nicotine withdrawal. Replace smoking with other activities that occupy your hands and your mouth.
Replace smoking with other activities that occupy your hands and your mouth. Find something that will replace smoking as a way to relax and do it consistently. Managing cravings Once you stop smoking, it is important to learn how to reduce your cravings for both cigarettes and food. To prevent extra snacking as a result of quitting smoking, do not try to quit smoking during a stressful period. Water retention may cause a deceptive weight gain of up to 5 pounds in the week after quitting smoking, but this is not a real weight gain, and your body will go back to normal. This can cause extra stress that can lead to extra snacking, especially over the holidays when more food is around, or relapsing back into smoking to cope with the stress.
Keep your hands busy with doodling, crossword puzzles, knitting, or twirling a straw, pen, or pencil. A craving only lasts about 5 minutes. Make a list of when and where you are most tempted to smoke, and list healthy activities you can substitute when you have the urge. When you quit smoking, you can breathe and get around more easily, and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables taste better when you are not smoking. A. If you can distract yourself for 5 minutes, the craving will usually pass. If you need more guidance, talk to your doctor or dietitian. Becoming physically active will not only help you control your weight, but will also give you more energy, improve your health, take your mind off smoking, and help relieve the stress and moodiness that may occur as a result of withdrawal from nicotine. Be confident that you are making a healthy choice! Your whole body will thank you!
Article Source: Stop Smoking Program
