The Weight Issue
Many individuals are concerned about gaining weight if they quit using tobacco. Just remember:
- Smokers weigh less on average than nonsmokers because smoking suppresses the appetite.
- Weight gain is not an automatic effect of stopping tobacco use.
- Usually weight gain is rather moderate -- an average of 7-10 pounds.
- Weight gain after stopping smoking is complex with multiple causes, among them: appetite increases, metabolism slows because of loss of the stimulant effect of nicotine, poor food selection.
- Often people substitute high-fat and high-calorie food for cigarettes.
- The worry of adding a few pounds is far outweighed by the physical benefits when quitting.
There are a variety of activities which you can substitute for smoking which won't make you gain weight and will help you keep a positive attitude. Click here to learn more.