Weight Gain After Quitting Smoking
Many people are hesitant to quit smoking because they fear the weight gain it’s going to cause. Some would rather keep inhaling cancer causing smoke than gain a couple of pounds. It is true that there can be connection between quitting and gaining weight for some people. But what is the cause and what can you do to avoid it?
Understanding why there is a connection is the first step to avoid weight gain. Most people who quit smoking get very anxious because of the nicotine cravings and find that eating helps calm them down. Eating makes the body release endorphines, which makes them feel better. Many people also get very nervous hands and eat to keep their hands occupied like cigarettes used to do. So a big part of the connection is that people simply replace smoking with eating.
Once you understand this you can avoid it by preparing yourself when you quit. Add some exercise to your daily routine and plan which snacks to keep in the house that will curb your cravings without getting overweight. And remember, quitting is worth the time and effort. While gaining weight is not very healthy, smoking is much worse.
