Why quitting smoking causes weight gain

It's common to gain weight after you stop smoking, especially during the first several months — but it isn't inevitable. Smoking acts as an appetite suppressant and may slightly increase your metabolism as well. When you quit smoking, your appetite and metabolism return to normal, which may lead you to eat more and burn fewer calories. Also, your ability to smell and taste food improves after you quit smoking. This can make food more appealing, which may lead you to eat more.

And if you substitute snacking for smoking, the calories may quickly add up. To avoid weight gain when you quit smoking, make diet and exercise part of your stop-smoking plan. It may help to:. Above all, remember that the health benefits of being smoke-free far exceed the problems associated with even moderate weight gain.

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Error Email field is required. Error Include a valid email address. Fight Cravings with Exercise. Craving a cigarette is normal when you quit smoking. Exercise can distract you and keep you busy until it passes. Tips for Healthy Weight Management. Losing weight seems like it's about balancing calories. Sounds simple, but it's not all about calories. Set Healthy Eating Goals. Healthy eating is an important part of overall health.

One way to help you eat healthier is to set goals. Make Healthy Food Choices. With a little planning, you can shop for foods that are good for you and help you feel good too. Not necessarily, although many people do. On average, people gain 5kg 11lbs in the year after they stop smoking.

Why do you put on weight when you quit? There are 5 main reasons: Smoking speeds up your metabolism, so your body burns calories at a faster rate. When you stop smoking, you actually need fewer calories. Smoking can suppress your appetite. You may find that food tastes better after you stop smoking and you also crave sugary foods. It's possible to mistake nicotine cravings for feeling hungry, or to eat to distract yourself from them.

You may replace the "hand-to-mouth" action of smoking with snacking. How can I avoid putting on weight when I quit? Keep your metabolism high by taking regular exercise. Try walking rather than getting the bus or using a lift, start a gym class, or ask your local sports centre about the activities they offer. Combat hunger pangs by keeping a stash of healthy treats to hand. Nuts, fresh fruit and veg sticks are ideal. Because weight gain apprehension may have a negative effect on smoking cessation, Kwit suggests you to change some of your habits :.

For additional advice, feel free to follow us on Instagram , LinkedIn and Twitter! Related article. Very quickly in the withdrawal, you will realize that you will have a different perception of smell and taste. You will regain the pleasure of eating, so why not start making 3 healthy recipes after quitting smoking? By continuing your navigation, you accept the use of cookies to help us better understand our audience.

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October 15, Is nicotine the only responsible for weight gain? So, is the correlation between quitting smoking and weight gain a myth or a reality?

A craving for a cigarette lasts approximately 5 minutes.